With an SSL certificate, we create a secure layer in the connection between the server and the user's Internet browser (such as Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox or Microsoft Edge). This prevents malicious parties from accessing data - such as that used when logging into online banking - sent over the Internet.
Search engines such as Google give priority to websites that have an SSL certificate installed. This benefits your position within the search results compared to competitors who do not have it.
What is SSL?
SSL stands for Secure Sockets Layer. Nowadays we work with a successor called TLS (Transport Layer Security), but colloquially we still call it SSL.
This layer provides a secure connection between the Internet browser and the server on which the Web site resides. You can best compare this to walking through customs at the airport.
How do you recognize an SSL certificate?
All browsers display a lock icon next to the domain name in the address bar. If this lock is present and not crossed out, you can assume that the website has a secure connection. You can click on the padlock, to see what SSL certificate is installed. Here you will mostly come across the following names: LetsEncrypt, Comodo and GlobalSign.
Should you not see such a lock, you can still recognize it by a domain name beginning with https://.
What does an SSL certificate cost?
Prices for an SSL certificate range from zero euros to several hundred euros.