What is SSL and how do I get it on my website?

SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) is an encryption protocol that enables the secure transmission of data between a web browser and a web server. It is important for protecting the privacy and safekeeping of data transferred between users and your website.

To implement SSL on your website, you can follow the steps below:

1. Purchase SSL certificate
   You must purchase an SSL certificate from a certificate authority. This certificate is digitally signed and installed on your server.
2. Install SSL certificate
   Your hosting provider or server management platform should provide you with instructions on how to install the certificate. This may vary depending on your hosting environment.
3. Configuring your website
   After installing the certificate, you need to configure your website to use SSL. You can do this in the settings of your content management system (CMS) such as WordPress or in your server configuration.
4. Avoid mixed content
   Make sure that all resources linked on your website (images, stylesheets, scripts) are also loaded over HTTPS. Mixed content can lead to warnings or security issues.
5. Enable HTTPS
   Change all references to your website to references to HTTPS to ensure that users are automatically redirected to the secure version of your website.

Implementing SSL on your website encrypts the transmission of sensitive data, which increases both security and user confidence. Most hosting providers offer free SSL certificates these days, and setting them up is often quite simple.