Why Most DIY Websites Fail in 6 Months
When browsing websites, you may have noticed a small lock icon next to the URL in the address bar. That lock represents SSL (Secure Sockets Layer), a technology that ensures secure communication between your browser and the website’s server.
In today’s digital world, where cyberattacks and data theft are common, SSL has become an essential part of web hosting. Without it, your website may not only lose user trust but also struggle to rank on search engines like Google.
This article explains what SSL is in hosting, how it works, and why every website owner must have it.
SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) is a security protocol that encrypts data transfer between the user’s browser and the hosting server.
Without SSL → Information like passwords, credit card numbers, or personal details can be stolen.
With SSL → All data is encrypted, making it unreadable to hackers.
👉 In hosting, SSL is installed on your web server to provide secure connections and show your visitors that your site is trustworthy.
When a visitor accesses your website:
The browser requests a secure connection with the server.
The hosting server responds by sending its SSL Certificate.
The browser verifies the certificate’s authenticity.
Once approved, an encrypted connection is established.
This process is called the SSL Handshake, and it happens in milliseconds.
A secure website is not a choice, it’s a necessity. SSL is the digital lock that protects both your visitors and your business.
Quick and inexpensive.
Validates only the domain ownership.
Best for blogs and small websites.
Requires business verification.
Displays organization details in the certificate.
Suitable for business websites.
Highest level of validation.
Shows company name in the browser bar.
Ideal for banks, eCommerce, and large organizations.
Secures the main domain and unlimited subdomains.
Best for businesses with multiple sub-sites.
SSL prevents sensitive information from being stolen.
Websites with SSL show a lock icon (https://), giving visitors confidence.
Google considers SSL as a ranking factor. Without it, your site may rank lower.
Websites without SSL show “Not Secure” warnings in browsers like Chrome. This can scare away potential visitors.
If you accept payments online, SSL is mandatory for PCI compliance.
Most hosting providers offer SSL in different ways:
Free SSL Certificates: Many hosts (like A2 Hosting, Bluehost, SiteGround) include free SSL via Let’s Encrypt.
Paid SSL Certificates: For advanced validation (OV or EV), you may need to purchase SSL separately.
One-Click Installations: Modern hosting dashboards allow easy installation of SSL certificates.
Q1: Is SSL free with hosting?
Yes, many hosting providers now offer free SSL through Let’s Encrypt.
Q2: Can I run a website without SSL?
Technically yes, but your site will show “Not Secure” and may lose trust and SEO rankings.
Q3: What’s the difference between HTTP and HTTPS?
HTTP = No SSL (insecure).
HTTPS = SSL installed (secure).
Q4: Which SSL is best for eCommerce?
Extended Validation (EV) SSL is best for eCommerce because it provides maximum trust.
SSL is no longer optional—it’s a must-have for every website. In hosting, SSL ensures that your site is secure, trusted, and optimized for search engines. Whether you’re running a small blog or a large eCommerce store, enabling SSL is the first step toward protecting your visitors and building credibility.
👉 If your hosting plan doesn’t include SSL, it’s time to upgrade or switch to a hosting provider that offers it.
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