SSL Certificate
An SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) certificate is a digital certificate that authenticates the identity of a website and enables an encrypted connection. It’s a security protocol that creates a safe channel for sensitive information, like personal details and credit card numbers, to be transmitted securely. When installed on a web server, it activates the padlock and the HTTPS protocol, ensuring secure connections from a web server to a browser. SSL certificates are essential for online transactions and are a critical component in building trust with users and improving a site's SEO ranking.