SSL Certificates: How HTTPS Protects Your Website

An SSL certificate protects the connection between a browser and a website. It encrypts data and indicates to visitors that the website is securely accessible.

What happens during an HTTPS connection?

When a website is opened, the browser checks its SSL certificate. If it is valid, an encrypted connection to the server is established.

Browser
   ⇅ encrypted connection
Website server

Which data is protected?

• Passwords and login details
• Contact form submissions
• Personal information
• Payment and order details
• Transmitted cookies and session data

Why is HTTPS essential today?

Browsers may display websites without a valid SSL certificate as insecure. This has a negative impact on trust, security and website usage.

What should website operators check?

• SSL certificate is active
• Domain is secured correctly
• No insecure HTTP content
• Automatic renewal is configured
• HTTP redirects to HTTPS

Common problem: Mixed content

Mixed content occurs when a website is available over HTTPS but individual images, scripts or stylesheets are still loaded over HTTP.

Conclusion

SSL certificates protect data, prevent browser warnings and build trust. HTTPS is therefore an essential part of every professional website.