If you see a "Not secure" warning next to the page address in your browser, the page doesn't have an SSL certificate. Visitors notice this — and many leave the page immediately.
What is an SSL certificate?
SSL (now technically TLS) is a technology that encrypts the connection between a visitor's browser and a server. With SSL, the address begins with https://, and the data that the visitor enters — passwords, contact forms, card details — cannot be read by third parties.
Why you need HTTPS
- Security — encrypted data from forms and logins.
- Trust — browsers mark pages without HTTPS as "not secure.".
- Google — HTTPS is a confirmed ranking factor.
- Payments — without SSL you cannot accept card payments.
Types of SSL Certificates
- DV (Domain Validation) — confirms that you control the domain. It is sufficient for most sites.
- OV (Organization Validation) — further confirms the existence of the company.
- EV (Extended Validation) — the highest level of verification, for banks and large e-stores.
- Wildcard — covers a domain and all its subdomains.
How to enable SSL
With our hosting packages, the SSL certificate is installed in cPanel. Once it is active:
- In WordPress, in Settings → General, change both addresses from http:// to https://.
- Set up a redirect from http to https, so that visitors and Google always use the secure version.
- Make sure all images and scripts are loaded over https (otherwise the browser displays "mixed content").
Frequently asked questions
Does SSL slow down the site?
No. Modern servers and HTTP/2 make HTTPS equally fast, and often faster, than HTTP.
What if the certificate expires?
Browsers display a full-screen warning. That's why it's important to have the certificate automatically renewed.
Have questions about SSL on your site? See the frequently asked questions or contact us.
