Why Do I Need An SSL?

By: Sheryl on September 19, 2011 — 

I often find myself out of my realm with technical terms about some of the web products our company provides.  We've sold digital certificates for several years, and I simply invoiced these every year with no concept of what they were for - until I set up my eCommerce store.

What is an SSL anyways?  Secure Sockets Layer - and yes, I googled the definition.  Koji recommended I get one of these.  Basically, an SSL is a digital certificate - it provides two-way security.  The customer sees a little "lock" icon when they are making purchases or entering confidential information, and the business owner can be assured that any information being passed through the browser is encrypted.  A dedicated IP (unique internet address for a hosting account) is also a requirement.

Why do I need an SSL?  For eCommerce transactions (online credit card payments etc.), transfer of sensitive files via FTP, or if customers use logins, passwords or set up accounts on your site.  There are different versions of SSL certificates to meet varying needs of businesses.  In my case, I've got an Ubercart setup with credit card payments, so an SSL is a must for security.

How can your business benefit from digital security?