The internet is evolving each and every day, and can sometimes be a scary place (you wouldn’t want to get lost in the dark web!) This is why it’s good to provide users of your website with peace of mind that you are legit and your site is a safe place for them to be.
How can you do this? Simple, by having an SSL Certificate installed on your website.
What is an SSL Certificate I hear you say? SSL stands for “Secure Sockets Layer”. It creates an encrypted line from your website to your server and handles all sensitive data, such as payment details, personal information, and client login details, and helps keep this information hidden from any unwanted visitors.
Need more convincing? Here are our top 5 reasons why you should have an SSL Certificate:
1. Browsers are making it harder to view non-SSL sites.
Have you ever tried to access a website and your browser has advised against it because the site isn’t secure? This is because there is no SSL in place. Any information you provide to the site (even by just accepting cookies) isn’t safe.
2. It keeps sensitive information sent across the internet encrypted.
Do you collect sensitive information through your website? This information can be as basic as a phone number or email address and these are details personal to an individual. Having an SSL helps to keep that information safe and secure.
3. Google prefer SSL’s and will rank your website higher for it.
Having an SSL will put you ahead of competitors when it comes to search rankings. It is a basic fundamental of SEO and in a world where everyone is competing for that top spot, don’t leave out the basics!
4. You get a little padlock in the top left corner, this helps to make users feel safe.
Would you want to visit a website that wasn’t protecting you and your information? Well, that’s how people would feel about visiting your website if you don’t have one either. People are happier when they feel safe and would be more likely to visit your website if you have one.
5. Do you take payments? Most payment providers won’t let you use their services on your website if you don’t have an SSL.
This is pretty important if you accept donations or are an eCommerce site. In order to be able to handle people’s payments safely, you will be required to have an SSL, over time you might notice your payment provider will simply block payments if your site isn’t secure.
An SSL Certificate is an annual addition to your website, meaning it needs to be renewed every year.
Need help? With prices starting from £99.00 our expert development team can purchase an SSL on your behalf, install it to your website and deal with the verification process. We will even handle the annual renewals so you don’t need to remember!
We are happy to help you in keeping your website secure, just get in touch – office@laser.red