SSL certificate

What is an SSL certificate (HTTPS)?

To answer this question adequately, we need to briefly discuss the basics. The "s" at the end of the "http" part of a URL means that the website is "secure". HTTPS (Hypertext Transport Protocol Security) or secure websites contain the SSL 2048-bit key and can protect a site connection through authentication and encryption.

A SSL certificate is thus a block of code on a web server that provides security for online communication. When a Browser makes contact with a secure website, the SSL certificate an encrypted (secure) connection. It's like sealing a package before putting it in the mail.

SSL certificates bring trust because each of them contains identification information - if a SSL certificate is requested, a third party verifies the company's information and then issues the user a unique certificate with that information. This is called the authentication process, and there is a possibility that you may have encountered an error message that contains the phrase.

Do SSL certificates influence SEO?

Already now, pages that have an SSL are given a better ranking by Google. Ranking rewarded and receive the characteristic green lock on their URL (address bar). Websites that collect user data (username/password, contact forms, newsletters) or credit card information for transactions but do not have SSL (unencrypted) are marked by Chrome with negative security icons and the phrase "Not Secure" in the address bar.

This seems appropriate as they are handling sensitive personal data, which will have a negative impact on SEO. Google has also implemented the Google Webmaster-tools to better manage HTTPS sites and reporting on them.

SEO benefits of switching to HTTPS

1. other referrer data

2. HTTPS as a ranking boost

3. security and data protection

4. HTTPS encrypts all communication

5. DSGVO compliance

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FAQ

What is an SSL certificate?

An SSL certificate is a digital certificate issued by an SSL Certificate Authority (CA) to establish a secure connection between a server and a browser. It encrypts the data that is transferred between the two endpoints to ensure that only authorized endpoints can read and modify the data.

Why is an SSL certificate important?

SSL certificates are important to ensure the integrity and confidentiality of your website and data. They ensure that all data transferred between the server and the browser is protected from third-party access. SSL certificates are also important to confirm the authenticity of a website and ensure that the website a user is communicating with is legitimate and secure.

How does an SSL certificate work?

An SSL certificate works by encrypting the data that is transferred between the server and the browser. A security key (public key) is then generated, which is used to encrypt the data. The server then uses the public key to decrypt the data so that it can be read by the browser.

What are the types of SSL certificates?

There are several types of SSL certificates, including Domain Validation (DV), Organization Validation (OV) and Extended Validation (EV). DV certificates are most commonly used to ensure that the website is legitimate and that data is transmitted without being read or modified by third parties. OV and EV certificates provide more security than DV certificates because they perform a more rigorous check to ensure that the website is legitimate.

Can anyone buy an SSL certificate?

No, not everyone can buy an SSL certificate. To buy an SSL certificate, you must have a valid domain and pass the authentication procedures performed by the issuing CA.

How long does it take to get an SSL certificate?

The time required to obtain an SSL certificate depends on the issuing CA and the verification procedures it uses. Most DV certificates are issued within a few minutes, while OV and EV certificates can take a few days.

How long is an SSL certificate valid?

The validity of an SSL certificate depends on the issuing CA and the type of certificate. DV certificates are usually valid for one year, while OV and EV certificates are valid for up to three years.

Which browsers support SSL certificates?

All modern browsers support SSL certificates. Some browsers, like Internet Explorer, only support certificates from specific CAs.

Do I need to update my SSL certificate regularly?

Yes, you should update your SSL certificate regularly to ensure that it is always up to date. Most SSL certificates need to be updated at least once a year.

How can I install an SSL certificate on my website?

Installing an SSL certificate on your website depends on the type of server and the type of certificate. However, usually you must first download the SSL certificate from the CA, generate the private key, and then install the certificate on the server. After that, you can use the certificate using the HTTPS protocols to establish secure connections to your website.

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Niels Stuck

Niels Stuck has 10 years of SEO experience and is the founder of the SEO agency "WOLF OF SEO". He gained practical experience by building 20+ affiliate sites alongside his marketing studies. Finally, he wrote his bachelor thesis about the influence of SEO on Google rankings, traffic and sales development in the form of a case study. Today, he specializes in e-commerce SEO and helps more than 80 companies build a sustainable organic revenue channel through SEO. Niels advises startups, established brands and corporations in search engine optimization of their online stores and primarily focuses on data-based content strategies and link building. He shares his knowledge about SEO and online marketing in this blog, as a speaker at conferences, in podcasts and as a guest author for OMT, Forbes, Starting Up and many more platforms.

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