Definition
An SSL certificate (Secure Sockets Layer certificate) is a digital certificate that authenticates the identity of a website and encrypts information sent between the server and the client. It establishes a secure connection by enabling HTTPS (HyperText Transfer Protocol Secure), which protects sensitive data from being intercepted during transmission.
Function
The main function of an SSL certificate is to secure data exchanged between a web server and a user's browser. It encrypts the data to prevent unauthorized access, thereby protecting confidential information such as login credentials, credit card details, and personal information. Additionally, SSL certificates help boost user trust, as they indicate that a website is secure, and can also positively impact a site's search engine ranking.
Related Terms
- SSL/TLS Encryption: The protocol used to secure the communication between the web server and the user's browser, ensuring that data in transit is encrypted.
- HTTPS: The secure version of HTTP that uses SSL/TLS for encryption, indicated by 'https://' in the URL.
- Domain Registration: The process of acquiring a domain name, which is essential for establishing an online presence and implementing SSL certificates for website security.
Here is the Wikipedia Article
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