What is an SSL Secure Server?
An 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 an 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 an SSL secure server means that they
can trust your site. This is especially true if you are collecting data or
selling products.
Using an 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.
