In the vast and fast-evolving digital landscape security is critically important, especially for online transactions, data transfer, and user privacy. One crucial technology development ensuring this security is the widely adopted security protocol SSL (Secure Sockets Layer), designed to facilitate privacy and data security for communications over the Internet.
Note: SSL was succeeded by TLS (Transport Layer Security), but SSL is still the most widely used abbreviation in the digital industry, as this is how the protocol became known at first. In this blog, we will also refer to SSL instead of TSL.
The SSL Protocol Functions
Encryption: SSL encrypts the data transferred between a user’s browser and the server of the website they are visiting, obstructing potential interception and reading or altering of the data by malicious actors.
Authentication: SSL verifies the server’s authenticity, assuring users are connected to the intended website and not an impostor. It ensures that the parties exchanging information are who they claim to be.
Data Integrity: SSL ensures that the data transmitted remains unchanged during its journey between the user and the server, preventing unauthorised modification, i.e. that the data has not been forged or tampered with.
Basic SSL vs. Paid SSL Certificates
An SSL certificate is a digital certificate that verifies a secure and encrypted connection between a web server and a user’s browser. It ensures that data transmitted between the two remains private and integral, protecting sensitive information from potential cyber threats. Additionally, website users feel more secure knowing their information is safe.
In South Africa, SSL certificates are vital for compliance with the Protection of Personal Information Act (PoPIA) (Act 4 of 2013), by safeguarding personal data on websites. POPIA stresses protecting personal information and demands secure measures. SSL encrypts data, prevents breaches, and boosts user privacy.
The full website address is preceded by “https//:www” where an SSL Certificate covers a website. HTTPS encryption occurs based upon the transmission of SSL Certificates, which verify that a particular provider is who they say they are.
While basic SSL certificates provide essential encryption and authentication, paid SSL certificates offer additional crucial features for specific websites. Paid SSL certificates are recommended:
- for e-commerce websites that process payments and delivery address details, or
- websites processing sensitive information like ID numbers and other identifying information.
Stronger Encryption: Paid certificates often have higher encryption and validation levels, offering stronger protection against sophisticated cyber threats.
Warranty and Liability Protection: Some paid SSL certificates include warranty protection, providing financial coverage in case of data breaches or issues arising from the SSL implementation.
Expert Support: Paid certificates often come with dedicated support from the certificate authority, ensuring prompt assistance in case of technical difficulties or configuration issues.
Websites That Need Paid SSL Certificates
Not all websites require paid SSL certificates with advanced features. However, certain scenarios call for heightened security measures:
E-commerce Websites: Online stores handling sensitive customer information (credit card details, personal data) necessitate stronger encryption and liability protection.
Financial Institutions: Banks, investment firms, and financial service providers need top-tier SSL encryption due to the sensitive nature of the data they handle.
Large Enterprises: Companies dealing with confidential information or operating globally often opt for paid SSL certificates for added security and support.
While basic SSL certificates provide fundamental protection, websites dealing with sensitive data or requiring additional support and warranty may benefit from investing in paid SSL certificates with enhanced features.
Types of SSL Certificates available in the digital market
Domain Validation (DV) Certificate: DV only requires proof you are the domain owner. It offers fundamental encryption and security, suitable for general website use.
Organisation Validation (OV) Certificate: OV requires proof of domain ownership, and your organisation’s name and location. This is considered a mid-level business certificate which garners more trust, essential for sites that process client and payment data.
Extended Validation (EV) Certificate: EV requires proof that your company is legally registered in a particular country, state, or city. It verifies that the certificate holder has passed the most extensive vetting level and identity background checks to certify that their website is authentic and legitimate. They are often required for high-profile brands, financial institutions, etc.
WeaverWorx provides FREE auto-installed Domain Validation (DV) “let’s encrypt” SSL certificates on our hosting plans, offering fundamental encryption and security, suitable for general website use.
Your web designer will recommend that you opt for a paid SSL certificate from a reputable hosting company if you have an e-commerce website or if your website processes sensitive or identifying information.
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