SSL Certificate
An SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) certificate is a type of security technology that establishes an encrypted connection between a web server and the user's browser.
This ensures that any data transmitted between the two, such as personal information, passwords, or credit card numbers, remains private and secure.
Features of an SSL Certificate:
- Data Encryption: Protects data in transit between the web server and the client (browser) using encryption algorithms to ensure that the information cannot be read or altered by third parties.
- Authentication: Verifies that the website the user is connected to is legitimate and not a malicious imitation, providing confidence in the site's identity.
- Data Integrity: Ensures that the data sent or received has not been tampered with during transfer.
- Visual Indicators: Websites with an SSL certificate typically display a padlock in the browser's address bar and use "https://" instead of "http://," indicating that the connection is secure.
Types of SSL Certificates:
- Domain Validation (DV) Certificate: Verifies only that the applicant owns the domain.
- Organization Validation (OV) Certificate: Verifies both the domain and the organization's existence.
- Extended Validation (EV) Certificate: Provides the highest level of validation, displaying the organization's name in the address bar along with a green padlock.
This type of certificate is essential for protecting both users and website owners, especially during financial transactions or when collecting sensitive data.
