SSL certificates

An SSL certificate is needed for safe interaction over the internet.

SSL is short for secure sockets layer, and is a protocol developed for transmitting private documents via the Internet. This protocol was developed by Netscape. SSL works by encrypting data that's transferred over the SSL connection by using a private key, such as credit card numbers.

Conventionally URLs that require an SSL connection start with https: instead of http:. A secure server is what the certificate is installed on, and used to identify the merchant using it and to encrypt the credit card, and other sensitive data.

If you have more than one domain to secure, then you should have more than one SSL certificate. You need as many SSL certificates as you have domain names, because digital certificates are domain and host name specific.

You need an SSL Certificate if...

• you have offices that share confidential information over an intranet.
• your business partners login to confidential information on an extranet.
• you process sensitive data such as addresses, banking details or other sensitive personal information.
• you need to comply with privacy and security requirements.
• you value confidentiality and want users to trust you.
• you have an online store or accept online orders and credit cards.

Benefits of SSL:

• Customer confidence in the integrity and security of your online business
• Fast issuance & no compromise on quality
• Stand-alone solution (no extra software needed on server)
• Keep your online transactions confidential
• 128 bit strong encryption SSL
• Non-forgeable proof of your Website identity
• Ideal and low cost for securing your web server
• 99.3% compatibility with all browsers
• Great customer support - 24/7
• Ease of use

So if you are looking for advanced protection and security for your dedicated server, why not take out a managed hosting server with UKFast or for a list of UK internet hosting suppliers click on the link.