SSL is among the most common way of protecting user and website communications, SSL encrypts a path between the internet user and the ssl protected web server. Any data that is sent during an SSL session will be encrypted which blocks unsolicited data interception. A website that accepts any sensitive end user specific data (user details, bank cards) really should be protected with an SSL certificate to uphold the security and level of privacy of its website visitors, infact most customers will never shop from a web site that fails to make use of an SSL certificate.
To enable SSL for a web site, you have to obtain an SSL Certificate that identifies you and install it onto your web server. Once a secure certificate is correctly installed to a website, the user can tell as a ‘lock’ will display, advising an SSL session is in place and any information transmitted is protected. A number of certificates will even display as a green web site address bar in most modern browsers. Once you’ve completed the SSL install, you can access a website securely by modifying the URL from http:// to https://. Throughout an SSL protected session any kind of info sent or recieved is protected from interception.
There are several methods to ensuring sensitive website data remains private, using SSL certificates is the standard for data transmissions. E-commerce based web sites should consider SSL necessary.
Choosing an SSL Certificate
SSL certificates normally come as several different types; we will focus on the main two, Single SSL Certificate and Wildcard SSL Certificate.
Single Certificate – These are normally the least expensive kind of certificate offered. The problem is this type of SSL certificate will protect one domain entry e.g. domain.com or www.domain.com it will not protect both or any additional sub domain.
Wildcard SSL Certificate – This type of SSL certificate is used to secure multiple sub domain entries. Wildcard Certificates enable multiple single level sub domains to be secured. And are much more pricey. e.g. mail.domain.com, ftp.domain.com
The evident pitfall of any of these types of SSL certificates is they will not secure the root domain AND a sub domain e.g. www.yourwebsite.com, yourwebsite.com
There is nevertheless a uncomplicated solution. Most people attempt to secure their whole website address. This is completely not required. Instead you should select a secure entry point and drive all SSL destined traffic through that sub domain. e.g. secure.domain.com. The SSL protocol is usually much slower then the standard http protocol. So should only be used during secure transactions. This can all be accommodated by a single SSL certificate.
Choosing an SSL company
There are plenty of SSL suppliers to select from, Many site owners choose to purchase from the larger vendors such as Thawte and WebSSL. Most large providers offer an SSL warranty and “secured by” web page seal which has a verified positive impact on visiting site users.
Choosing which SSL certificate and which provider to purchase from will be different from website to website but mainly comes down to your budget. Most websites will find a basic rapidSSL certificate will be fine.
To find out more on choosing a cheap ssl certificate that is appropriate for your website visit Optic Empire, specialists in business web hosting, personal web hosting, and SSL certificates.








