Secure Sockets Layer is a cryptographic protocol originally designed to secure communication between a user’s browser and a web server. It encrypts data in transit so sensitive information such as login credentials, personal details, and payment data cannot be intercepted or altered. SSL establishes a secure connection by authenticating the server and creating an encrypted session.
Although SSL as a protocol has been deprecated, the term is still widely used to describe website encryption. Modern implementations use its successor, Transport Layer Security, but SSL remains the common shorthand in technical, commercial, and regulatory discussions. When a site uses SSL, it is typically indicated by HTTPS and a security icon in the browser.
SSL is a foundational web security requirement. It protects user data, builds trust, and is considered a baseline standard for modern websites. Search engines and browsers expect encrypted connections for nearly all public facing sites.
Advanced
SSL encryption relies on digital certificates issued by trusted certificate authorities. These certificates verify site identity and enable encrypted data exchange. Configuration quality matters, as weak ciphers, expired certificates, or mixed content undermine security benefits.
From a performance and SEO perspective, SSL is lightweight and expected. Search engines treat HTTPS as a trust and safety signal, and browsers may warn users when encryption is missing or misconfigured. Proper certificate management and renewal are essential for operational stability.
Relevance
- Protects data transmitted between users and servers.
- Builds user trust and confidence.
- Meets modern browser security expectations.
- Supports compliance and data protection standards.
- Reinforces baseline SEO trust signals.
Applications
- Ecommerce and payment processing.
- Login and account based platforms.
- Contact forms and data collection.
- SaaS and cloud applications.
- Any public facing website.
Metrics
- HTTPS adoption across site pages.
- Certificate validity and expiry status.
- Mixed content error occurrence.
- Browser security warning reports.
- Successful secure connection rates.
Issues
- Expired certificates break trust.
- Mixed content weakens security.
- Poor configuration reduces protection.
- Missing encryption triggers browser warnings.
- Lack of renewal causes downtime.
Example
A business website migrated from HTTP to HTTPS by implementing SSL certificates across all pages. Browser warnings disappeared, user confidence improved, and form submissions increased due to clearer trust signals.