Why have an SSL certifcate?
"Long term - Use HTTPS everywhere
Eventually, Chrome will show a Not Secure warning for all pages served over HTTP, regardless of whether or not the page contains sensitive input fields."
Websites with an SSL certificate will also gain a boost in their search rank and a green padlock in the browser will enhance trust in your website.
Types of SSL certificate
Domain Validation
- Fast & Affordable
- Fully supported by browsers
- No paperwork required
Organisation Validation
- Business Assurance Validated
- Enhanced visibility for site owner
- Some vetting of the organisation
Extended Validation
- Green Bar Assurance
- Highest trust rating
- Thorough vetting of the organisation
What is an SSL certifcate?
An SSL Certificate (Secure Sockets Layer) is an extra layer of security that a website can deploy which provides data encryption for information transferred over a server.
What is HSTS?
By having a Strict-Transport-Security header installed, it will be nearly impossible for hackers to gain access, or obtain sensitive information.
What does it do?
It serves two main functions.
- It enables encrypted connections between website visitors and the server that hosts the website.
- It also authenticates the identity of the company or organisation that holds the certifcate.
While this type of encryption is common for ecommerce websites, it has not traditionally been a priority in other industries. Until Now.
Sites that use SSL will start with https rather than http