An SSL certificate is a small bit of code on your web server that provides security for online communications. When a web browser contacts your secured website, the SSL certificate enables an encrypted connection.

Why do you need an SSL cert?
You need an SSL cert on your website to make sure no data is intercepted.
If you have an SSL cert it means that the connection between your client’s web browser (such as Safari, Firefox or Google Chrome) and your website is encrypted and secure. A valid SSL certificate is required to accept payments on your website. Stripe for example, require you to have a valid SSL certificate installed to make use of their Payments API. 

Do I have an SSL cert?
You can test it by browsing to https://DOMAIN (replace the DOMAIN placeholder with the domain name of your website). eg: https://54.155.152.51

Clicking the padlock icon in the browser address bar should display the details of the domain and SSL certificate.

How do I get an SSL cert?
To get an SSL certificate you must log into your server (using an SSH client or server admin panel such as cPanel) and install the certificate in an appropriate directory.  
All our web design packages include the installation and ongoing renewal an SSL certificate so we will take care of this for you. Get in touch today if you need assistance installing or renewing your SSL certificate.