You've seen https:// and the lock icon in site addresses. That's the SSL certificate. What is it and why does it matter?
What is SSL?
SSL (later TLS) is a technology that encrypts data between the site and the visitor's browser. Thanks to encryption, passwords, card numbers and personal data cannot be read by third parties.
Why does every site need it?
- Security: data entered by the user is protected.
- Trust: the lock icon shows the visitor the site is trustworthy.
- Browser warning: Chrome marks sites without SSL as "Not secure".
- SEO: Google prefers HTTPS sites in ranking.
Free and paid SSL
For most sites a free Let's Encrypt certificate is fully sufficient. Paid certificates offer extra warranty and company verification — that's for large businesses and online stores.
How is it installed?
In Sayt.uz hosting plans free SSL is installed automatically — no separate setup needed.