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Web Hosting Jargon Explained, Part 2: SSL

What is SSL? Do I need it? Get the facts about HTTP encryption.

Secure Sockets Layer (SSL)

SSL provides data encryption and server authentication. It is used to safeguard the data transmitted between the website and the browser, and for the user to guarantee the identity of the server.

SSL used in conjunction with HTTP is called HTTPS for HTTP Secure. You should use HTTPS every time sensitive information is exchanged between your website and the user:

• login and password
• credit card number
• important information
• etc.

The padlock on the right of the address bar indicates SSL access.

SSL Certificate

SSL requires the use of an SSL certificate. The SSL certificate can be purchased from your Web hosting company, or from another company (see SSL offers).

A unique certificate has to be issued for each full domain. If you receive a certificate for https://www.reviews-web-hosting.com/, you cannot use it for https://blog.reviews-web-hosting.com/ or even for https://reviews-web-hosting.com/ (except for a wild card certificate which is more expensive). If you want to secure several domains, or different subdomains, you have to buy a different certificate for each of them.

Similar to domain names, SSL certificates are usually valid for one year, and must then be renewed yearly. However, it is possible to buy a certificate which is valid for several years..

This SSL certificate identifies online.citibank.com.

Dedicated IP Address

When you buy a shared plan, the most common and cheapest hosting plan, your are hosted on a computer along with of other websites. Because of technical restrictions, each SSL certificate requires a dedicated IP address. To secure your website, you need to buy both a SSL certificate and a dedicated IP address for your plan.

GoDaddy: Go Daddy $12.99 SSL Sale!

Minimum price is rarely below $20/year. You can use this certificate with any other web hosting company that allows you to bring your own certificate. GoDaddy certificates are recognized by 98% of all browsers.

DreamHost: Free dedicated IP address!

Use the coupon REVIEWSWEBHOST2 to get a free dedicated IP address (required to use an SSL certificate).

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