What is an SSL Certificate

Hacking website, social security numbers, dates of birth, and credit card numbers has become big business. And, if you plan to sell anything on the web these days, you are going to need an SSL certificate. Here is a quick "how to" and "what is" on SSL certificates.

WHAT IS IT? - An SSL Certificate is an electronic program which starts or enables the SSL (Secure Socks Layer) of your web server and gives your customers a way to send information to you securely. In this way you can ensure that credit card transactions, social security numbers and other information is protected.

HOW DO I KNOW? - Visit some sites such as http://www.bankofamerica.com or http://www.wachovia.com. Look for a small yellow lock icon on the bottom of your web browser and on their login pages you should notice https:// as part of the web address. Only submit information to these sites if these two items are available. Too see more information about their certificate, be sure to click on the icon.

HOW DO I PURCHASE OR GET? - To get an SSL certificate, a web authority must very information about you and your company. Place the AquaDuckie.com are great places to start. Be sure to use a major vendor for your SSL...in the end the customer support and quality of your certificate makes the purchase and experience much easier.