Websites, especially those created for businesses, need to have a good level of digital security in order to protect both the company and their customers. One of the most common cryptographic protocols used and considered even during web portal development is SSL, also known as Secure Sockets Layer. It is often referred to as Transport Layer Security (TLS).
Purpose of SSL
SSL and TLS are both meant to keep communications between servers and web browsers secure. It is often observed in web pages that have HTTPS on the URL — this means that the page has been secured using TLS. Communications security is also used for different applications like email, instant messaging, VoIPs, and Internet faxing.
Having an SSL certificate allows businesses to communicate safely and securely with their customers and vice versa. The protocol supports authentication, encryption, and data integrity. It ensures that a user connects to the right server, and that the data transmitted is protected.
Reasons for Having SSL
Some business owners might think that they are not big enough to become targets of hackers, thereby ignoring the importance of having an SSL certificate. This is unwise because some perpetrators are more interested in taking advantage of vulnerabilities than anything else. In other words, companies doing business online should focus not only on the SEO, SMM, and SEM services Singapore agencies offer but also in making sure that their sites are secure.
Here are some reasons why a website needs SSL/TLS:
- To keep forms safe. One important strategy that many companies implement is lead generation, which is mainly offering perks and freebies in exchange for a web visitor’s information. This includes getting their names, email addresses, sometimes their phone numbers, and addresses. If the site does not have SSL, then the data could be intercepted and leaked.
- To protect passwords. It goes without saying that websites owned by entities like banks, investment companies, and merchants should have a tight level of security to protect their users’ passwords. However, even simple blogs and CMS sites require passwords for their administrators and contributors, which could be stolen and used improperly. Thus, one should not leave any loopholes for hackers to use it to their advantage.
- To accept payments securely. Sites that accept online payments are particularly attractive to hackers, so it is vital that an e-commerce site puts an SSL in place. Not only does it provide security for the business and its customers, but it is also assure buyers that their data are not being put at risk.
Internet users want their personal information, credit card numbers, and other data to be kept under strict confidentially with minimal risk of landing in the wrong hands. Similarly, a company would not want to risk having their business penetrated, regardless how big or small they may be. Thus, it is important to consider SSL before or during the web portal development process.
How to Get SSL
For a website to be SSL secured, it has to have its own IP address. The owner then needs to purchase an SSL certificate from a certificate authority (CA). This guarantees that the holder indeed owns the public key for the site.
After purchase, the certificate has to be activated before installation. The owner may be able to do this, however it can be a complicated task, thus they may want a web host to do it for them. The last step is to update their site from HTTP to HTTPS.
At Subzero Lab, we understand how important internet security is for your business. Our web development specialist can help not only in designing and developing your website but also ensuring that the SSL protocol is in place. In addition, we also provide SEO, SMM, and SEM services in Singapore, which help companies be competitive in the market.
For more information about our services, contact us at 8188 5159 or email us at wow@subzerolab.sg.
