SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) certificates are a small part of a digital signature used to link an organisation known as an SSL provider or a CA (Certificate Authority) to an online business via a cryptographic key pair. This connection ensures that data transmitted between the server hosting the website and the visitor’s browser is encrypted.

SSL bears the seal of this certification authority and guarantees that no eavesdropping takes place whilst the connection is being established. When SSL is installed for a domain name, it enables the padlock icon to appear in the browser and allows the use of the secure HTTPS protocol. Typically, the types of data frequently targeted by hackers include sensitive information such as credit card transactions and login details. Over the past few years, SSL certificates have become the security standard for online presence and are in high demand amongst website owners. As part of their efforts to make the internet safer, Google officials have confirmed that any website which holds an SSL certificate and uses the HTTPS protocol will be ranked higher in search results.

Generally speaking, SSL enables a private ‘conversation’ between the client and the server.

Our domain-validated SSL certificates are available from €8.98 per year and can be issued in as little as 5 minutes. Our web hosting and cPanel hosting plans also come with a free Let’s Encrypt certificate.

How does it work?

Now that we’ve explained what an SSL certificate is, let’s look at how it works so that you can better understand the process:

1. As mentioned above, the SSL certificate links the SSL provider to the online business or domain name using the certificate. When a website is visited, the server shares the public key with the visitor’s browser.
2. This process generates a unique session ID for the encryption method, and the two keys are compared with each other.
3. The browser then determines whether the certificate on the server is trustworthy and valid. If this is the case, it authorises the connection by sending a ‘confirmation message’ to the server.
4. The server then sends a digitally signed response, also known as an ‘SSL handshake’, and this marks the start of the encrypted connection.

How can I tell if a website uses an SSL certificate?

Always check whether a website uses an SSL certificate before submitting any sensitive data to it. You can do this by looking at the top left-hand corner of your browser, where you type in the actual domain. A website using SSL will ALWAYS be accessible via HTTPS. Another distinguishing feature is the padlock icon to the left of the domain name. If neither of the above features is present, the message ‘Not secure’ will appear, and you should consider leaving the site and shopping or registering elsewhere.

Do I need an SSL certificate for my website?

Yes! Every website worth its salt should use an SSL certificate, especially if you have an e-commerce website. Here are the benefits:

• All sensitive information transmitted via the server hosting your website and the visitor’s browser will be encrypted and inaccessible to hackers.
• This inspires confidence in visitors and encourages them to browse your website freely.
• Google will rank your website higher, as its search algorithm gives preference to websites with an SSL certificate.
• Your website will have a more professional look, so other businesses and people in general will take you more seriously.

How do I get an SSL certificate?

If you are an aWh customer, we will install SSL by default on any domain that you set up within your hosting plans with us and that points to our name servers. We use cPanel’s AutoSSL feature, which issues certificates from Sectigo or Let’s Encrypt – a reputable certificate authority.

Alternatively, you can purchase and install an SSL certificate from another SSL provider, transfer an SSL certificate from your previous hosting provider, and generate a new CSR.