SSL Certificate
An SSL certificate is a digital data file that links a cryptographic key to an organization’s or individual’s information.
When installed on a web server, it implements the SSL protocol, activating the padlock and HTTPS protocol and enabling secure connections from a web server to a browser.
SSL certificates are used to secure online transactions and to confirm the identity of the website, giving users confidence that the site is authentic and not a phishing attempt. Certificates are issued by certificate authorities (CAs) after verifying the identity and legitimacy of the applicant.
There are different types of SSL certificates, including domain validation, organization validation and extended validation certificates, each with different levels of verification and security. Implementing an SSL certificate is standard practice for websites that wish to improve their security and user trust, as well as benefit from possible improvement in search engine rankings.