SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) certificates are absolutely necessary for your website in these times. There are a few major reasons why an SSL certificate is beneficial and important.
Why You Need an SSL Certificate
Encryption of Sensitive Data
SSL certificates encrypt sensitive information your users send such as credit card numbers, personal information, login credentials, and more.
Consumer Trust
With an SSL certificate, your website visitors will have peace of mind knowing their data is protected by a secure connection. Visitors will also know that your website is vouched for by a trusted Certificate Authority.
SEO Benefits
Since 2014, Google has used HTTP encryption as a factor in their search algorithm. Any advantage you can gain compared to competitors in regards to SEO is a huge plus.
Obtaining an SSL Certificate
Many reputable website hosting providers offer free SSL certificates via Let’s Encrypt or similar organizations. There are some cases where you may opt for a paid SSL certificate. Most informational websites will be just fine with a free SSL certificate. If you need to protect a main domain, and multiple subdomains, a special type of SSL certificate known as a Wildcard will allow you to secure all of them with a single certificate. Consult with a professional if you’re unsure which SSL certificate to use.
Final Thoughts
With an SSL certificate, you can rest easy at night knowing your website is much more secure. Your users won’t be nagged by alerts stating your website is insecure. There really isn’t an argument against why you wouldn’t need an SSL certificate these days. The SEO benefits alone should be a great reason to get one for your website today, if you haven’t already.
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