What is an SSL Certificate?

An SSL certificate (Secure Sockets Layer) is a digital certificate that encrypts communication between a website and its visitors. You can recognize websites with SSL by the padlock in the address bar and https:// instead of http://.

Why do you need SSL?

1. Security

SSL encrypts all data exchanged between the visitor and server. This protects sensitive information like passwords, credit card details and personal data.

2. Trust

Visitors trust websites with the green padlock more. Browsers even actively warn about unsecured websites.

3. SEO benefits

Google prefers secure websites. SSL is a ranking factor for search engines.

4. Legal requirements

GDPR requires appropriate security measures for personal data. SSL is essential for this.

Types of SSL certificates

• Domain Validation (DV) - Basic validation, quick to obtain
• Organization Validation (OV) - Company validation, more trust
• Extended Validation (EV) - Extended validation, green bar

Free vs paid SSL

Many hosting providers offer free SSL via Lets Encrypt. This is sufficient for most websites. Paid certificates offer extra guarantees and more extensive validation.

SSL and your hosting

Most modern hosting packages include free SSL. Always check:

• Is SSL included?
• Is it automatically renewed?
• What type of certificate is it?

Compare hosting with free SSL

Frequently Asked Questions

Is SSL mandatory for my website?

SSL is not legally required, but browsers mark websites without SSL as "not secure". For webshops and sites with forms, SSL is practically indispensable.

What is the difference between free and paid SSL?

Free SSL (Let's Encrypt) offers the same encryption as paid certificates. Paid certificates offer additional validation and a warranty in case of data breaches.

How often does an SSL certificate need to be renewed?

Paid SSL certificates are valid for 1-2 years. Let's Encrypt certificates must be renewed every 90 days (this usually happens automatically).