WHAT SSL IS ALL ABOUT?

SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) is the standard security technology for creating an encrypted link between a web server and a browser. This link guarantees that all data transferred between the web server and browsers remains protected and private. Take a look at the video below for a real simple explanation of how SSL works, and check out this article for a deeper look.

WHY ONLINE RETAILERS SHOULD CARE ABOUT SSL: THE NEW INDUSTRY STANDARD

SSL has steadily become a standard on websites, especially on online shops, as customers often store sensitive information, like credit card numbers, personal identification information, and login credentials. During the past year, companies such as Alphabet Inc, Google and PayPal have established SSL as the norm, and even a requirement at times, and we at Vaimo do highly recommend installing a SSL certificate.

What an SSL Certificate will do for you:

  • Boost customer confidence in your site
  • Future proof your business
  • Improve your search engine rankings
  • Guard your website from digital attacks

TYPES OF SSL

There are several different types of SSL; we’ve rounded them up for your convenience.

ENCRYPTION LEVEL

Most companies offer several levels of encryption, but we recommend using a 256-bit encryption whenever possible.

CERTIFICATION DETAILS / AUTHENTICATION

The details stored in the certificate are a vital factor between different levels of certificates. Many less costly versions secure the domain name only, and while often this is a sufficient level of protection, companies that want added security should consider choosing a certificate that also secure important company details. This ensures that the data coming from your website is yours only, and your customers can therefore feel confident that they are not open to a phishing attack. When speed matters to you, the basic domain validation certification may be performed in mere minutes. For higher certificates, business information and even legal counsel is often required, which ends up consuming time.

Premium Extended Validation SSL certificates offer extended validation, a newer functionality that changes the colour of the address bar, usually to a friendly green shade when a user visits a secure site. While this may be a pricier feature, it’s a simple way to reassure a visitor that they are on a safe site.

WARRANTY

Usually, the more expensive an SSL certificate is, the higher the warranty that offers coverage if something should go wrong.

ISSUANCE SPEED

The amount of time that it takes to procure your SSL certificate is also dependant upon the level of protection that you have purchased. The lower-priced, less invasive certificates are automated and can be installed fast, while the more expensive certificates can take days or even weeks to install.

BROWSER COMPATIBILITY

Nearly all SSL providers provide a 99% browser guarantee, but it’s also essential to test other devices, such as mobile phones. While it’s rare to encounter a compatibility problem on mainstream devices, it may be an issue if your customer base is using non-standard devices.

If you are a Vaimo client and interested in acquiring an SSL Certificate for your site, don’t hesitate to contact us and we will find the right solution for you.