Domains & Hosting

What Is an SSL Certificate?

Why your website needs the padlock, and what happens without it.

On this page

Quick answer: SSL encrypts the connection between your website and its visitors. It shows the padlock and the https:// address. Without it, browsers warn visitors your site is not secure.

Why it matters

  • Protects anything typed into forms
  • Browsers show "Not secure" on sites without it
  • Google prefers secure sites

Renewals

Certificates expire and must renew. Many renew automatically every few months. An expired certificate shows visitors a scary warning page.

SSL is included with all our hosting.