Web Site Security Certification

When shopping online and visiting various websites, it is important to remember that information is being transmitted. In order to provide a secure channel for the transmission of that information, a type of encrypted standard known as secure sockets layer, or SSL, was developed. Website owners can purchase SSL security for their sites by purchasing an SSL certificate.

The Facts

• To create a secure online environment for website visitors, encoded and encrypted technology is needed. Information transmitted over the Internet is extremely vulnerable to theft and attack without some type of security standards in place.

Significance

• SSL certificates are similar to a business stamp of approval saying that they have the security of the website visitor in mind. Websites with SSL certificates offer both secure connections to their website and secure transmission of information for online shopping. SSL certificates are usually purchased by website owners from trusted ISPs or security companies.

Considerations

• For website owners and operators, it is important to guarantee safe Internet connections for visitors. This can decrease their risk factor and liability in case of the loss or theft of data. Having an SSL certificate on a website is, for some, a sign that the website is a trusted place to visit and to shop. SSL certificates often need to be renewed by the website owner every year.