What is a Web SSL certificate?
SSL stands for Secure Sockets Layer. The primary function of a Web server SSL certificate (also known as a Secure Certificate) is to allow you to collect information from a user visiting your Web site and pass the information from their browser to the Web server securely by encrypting the information. The second function of an SSL certificate is to verify the authenticity of your Web site as it relates to your domain registration and business presence. This is enabled by the certificate authority (Geotrust, Verisign, etc.) and their extensive review of your request for a SSL certificate. This way your Web site visitors can be assured that not only are they encrypting their data before sending it across the Internet but that they are also doing business with a legitimate and registered company or entity.
