What is an SSL Secure Server and Do You Need One?

A SSL secure server is a protocol which provides encrypted communication to a secure server.  A good example of this is when you are paying with a credit card on a website. The site will use a SSL Secure Server to process your transaction. This allows you as the customer to feel safe that your information cannot be read by anyone else.

The easiest way to understand a SSL Secure Server is to know that it is a method of transmitting information to and from a website securely.

The benefit to using a SSL secure server is one of protection and security. The information which the website collects is stored in a secure location. The type of information stored can include phone numbers, addresses, credit card numbers and social security numbers.

For visitors to your website using a SSL secure server means that they can trust your site. This is especially true if you are collecting data or selling products.

Using a SSL secure server is fairly easy. Your hosting provider may even set it up for you if necessary. Basically all you are doing is to create a new subdirectory in your hosting account. If you use the File Manager it is a simple process to set up.

Once your directory is created you add any pages that you wish to protect inside this subdirectory.  What this does is to redirect your website visitors to this secure page. The visitor themselves will not really notice any difference.

If you look in your address bar you will notice that your SSL pages are displayed by https:// instead of just http://.

Each web hosting provider may set up their SSL Secure Servers a little differently. If you are not sure how to do this contact support and they can redirect to the tutorial page.

To use a SSL Secure Server you normally have to purchase a SSL Certificate. Some domain name registrants may include this free with the purchase of a new domain name. Prices for these certificates can vary considerably. So it is worthwhile to research what different companies are offering.

If your website contains private information or you want to protect your content and products buying a SSL Secure Server Certificate is a wise investment. With more people expecting to make purchases online it really makes sense to protect your website. This will in turn attract more visitors who are willing to spend money on your site.