SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) is a standard security technology for establishing an encrypted link between a server and a client—typically a web server (website) and a browser. SSL allows sensitive information such as credit card numbers, sensitive data and login credentials to be transmitted securely. Normally, data sent between browsers and web servers is sent in plain text—leaving you vulnerable to eavesdropping. If an attacker is able to intercept all data being sent between a browser and a web server they can see and use that information which is why SSL certificates are used on all payment processing and sensitive information forms online. Quite simply, it adds the padlock symbol to the URL or address bar of your browser to show a secure connection.
There are a few different types of SSL certificates:
Domain Validated SSL - validated by sending an approval email to the admin-contact email address for your domain name. Once approved, the installation is within 2 hours.
Organisation Validated SSL - domain validation takes place as above then additional checks on the trading status of the limited company, organisation or sole trader are carried out. The legal owner name and business address then appear in the certificate details and can be very reassuring for visitors to your site.
Extended Validation SSL - both validation processes and checks are carried out as seen in Domain and Organisation validated SSL’s but it also has a green bar or padlock in the web browser URL/address bar which is reassuring to visitors and provides a higher level of protection.
