SSL Certificate

An SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) certificate is a data file that authenticates a website's identity and enables an encrypted connection between a web server and a browser, using the HTTPS protocol. This encrypts data like login credentials and credit card numbers, preventing criminals from reading or tampering with it, and is indicated by a padlock icon in the browser's address bar. SSL certificates also verify website ownership, which builds trust with visitors. 

What an SSL certificate does

• Authenticates identity: It acts like an ID card that proves the website is who it claims to be.
• Encrypts data: It creates a secure, encrypted link between the website and the user's browser, protecting sensitive information exchanged during a session.
• Verifies ownership: It confirms that the website owner is who they say they are, which helps prevent attackers from creating fake versions of the site. 

How it works

• Enables HTTPS: An SSL certificate allows a website to use the HTTPS protocol, which is the secure version of HTTP.
• Uses public and private keys: The certificate contains the website's public key. When a user's browser connects, it uses this public key to establish an encrypted session. The private key, which is kept secret, is used to decrypt the information.
• Provides a trust indicator: When an SSL certificate is active, a padlock icon and "https" prefix will appear in the browser's address bar, showing the connection is secure. 

Why it is important

• Protects user data: It keeps private data like passwords, credit card numbers, and other personal information confidential.
• Builds customer trust: A secure connection reassures customers that their information is safe when they conduct transactions or enter personal details on the website.
• Improves SEO: Search engines tend to rank websites with HTTPS (and thus SSL certificates) higher in search result