HTTPS is the secure version of HTTP. The “S” stands for “Secure” and indicates that the website is protected by an SSL Certificate, which encrypts data transmitted between the browser and server. This ensures a secure connection, marked by a padlock icon in the browser address bar, while HTTP does not provide this encryption or security.

An SSL Certificate is essential for securing sensitive data like login details and payment information. It establishes a secure, encrypted connection between your website and its visitors, builds trust through visible security indicators, helps comply with industry regulations, and can also improve your search engine rankings.

SSL Certificates encrypt the data transmitted between your web server and your visitors’ browsers. This encryption prevents unauthorised access or interception of sensitive information such as personal data, passwords, and payment details.

While specific types are not listed here, SSL Certificates generally vary by validation level (e.g., Domain Validation, Organization Validation, Extended Validation) and coverage (single domain, multi-domain, wildcard). The best choice depends on your website’s structure and security needs. Contact us for personalised guidance on selecting the right certificate.

This information isn’t provided here, but most SSL Certificates are valid for 1 to 2 years. Renewal involves verifying your domain or business identity again and re-installing the updated certificate. We recommend setting reminders to renew before expiry to avoid security warnings.

Not all SSL Certificates support multiple domains. To secure more than one website or subdomain, you may need a Multi-Domain (SAN) or Wildcard SSL Certificate. Contact us for advice on the right solution based on your setup.

Modern SSL Certificates have minimal impact on website performance. In fact, many hosting environments are optimized for HTTPS, and the benefits of encryption and security far outweigh any negligible difference in loading time.

A valid SSL Certificate is indicated by a padlock icon in the browser’s address bar and the “https://” prefix in the URL. Clicking the padlock also reveals certificate details, including its validity and the verified organization.

While not legally required for all websites, SSL Certificates are strongly recommended—especially for sites handling sensitive data. Additionally, they are increasingly expected by visitors and search engines, making them essential for trust, security, and visibility.

Without an SSL Certificate, data on your website can be intercepted, leading to security breaches. Browsers may flag your site as “Not Secure,” which can deter visitors and reduce trust. Additionally, your website may rank lower on search engines and fail to meet compliance standards if handling sensitive information.