SSL stands for Secure Socket Layer but does your website need SSL. Lets look at what it does: It is a security system that encrypt your communication over the internet.
As a Small business why does your website need SSL?
SSL ensures the information given is delivered to the server that it was intended for, without falling into the hands of 3rd parties (Hackers) who could tamper with the data.
How to recognize sites that have SSL
Sites that have an SSL certificate are recognized by the following:
The URL domain – it has an “s” on the end so it is https// and not just http//
The padlock icon appears infront of the URL in the browsers address bar
What Are the Benefits?
Trust & Reputation — An SSL certificate helps build a trusted online brand recognized by customers as a reputable website. When completing transactions over the Internet, online shoppers trust the https:// URL and padlock symbol over the unsecured http:// URL. That means you can confidently sell products or services in an online shop knowing that each of your transactions is secure.
Search Engine Ranking — In addition to popularity with customers, an SSL certificate will make you popular with search engines as well! The SSL certificate is recognized by Google’s algorithm as a seal-of-quality and assurance, meaning your website will appear higher up in the search engine’s results compared to unsecured websites.