Every website needs HTTPS. Not just e-commerce sites, not just sites with login forms -- every website. Browsers warn visitors about non-HTTPS sites, Google ranks HTTPS sites higher, and customers expect the padlock icon.
What SSL Does
SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) encrypts the connection between your website server and the visitor browser. This prevents:
- Interception of form submissions (contact forms, login credentials)
- Man-in-the-middle attacks on public WiFi
- Data tampering during transmission
- Session hijacking
Types of SSL Certificates
- Domain Validated (DV): Verifies you own the domain. Free or $10-$50/year. Sufficient for most business websites.
- Organization Validated (OV): Verifies your organization identity. $50-$200/year. Better for businesses handling sensitive data.
- Extended Validation (EV): Most thorough verification. $100-$300/year. Shows organization name in some browser interfaces.
- Wildcard: Covers your domain and all subdomains. $50-$200/year. Good for businesses with multiple subdomains.
Installation and Maintenance
Most hosting providers offer one-click SSL installation. Auto-renewal prevents expiration (an expired SSL shows security warnings). After installing, redirect all HTTP traffic to HTTPS and update internal links.
Need SSL installation help? Contact us -- we include SSL setup with all our web projects.
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Tony Paris
Founder and Tech Wizard at AppWT Web & AI Solutions. With over 29 years of experience in web development, Tony helps businesses succeed online through custom websites, SEO, and AI integration.
Learn more about TonyFrequently Asked Questions
What is an SSL certificate?
An SSL certificate encrypts data transmitted between your website and visitors browsers. It changes your URL from http:// to https:// and displays a padlock icon. This prevents hackers from intercepting sensitive data like passwords, credit cards, and personal information.
How much does an SSL certificate cost?
Basic SSL certificates are free through Let us Encrypt (included with most hosting). Premium certificates (Extended Validation, wildcard) cost $50-$300/year. For most business websites, a free Let us Encrypt certificate provides sufficient security.
What happens if my website does not have SSL?
Chrome, Firefox, and Safari display "Not Secure" warnings to visitors. Google penalizes non-HTTPS sites in search rankings. Visitors are less likely to submit forms or make purchases on sites without SSL. There is no reason not to have it.
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