SSL/TLS – What Is It and Why Is It Important

SSL/TLS – What Is It and Why Is It Important?

SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) and its successor TLS (Transport Layer Security) are encryption protocols that protect communication between browser and server. You recognize them by the lock icon in the address bar and https:// instead of http://.

Note: Detailed setup guides can be found in the articles in the left navigation.

Why is SSL/TLS important?

• Encryption: All data between browser and server is encrypted – passwords, credit card details, personal messages
• Trust: Visitors see the lock icon and know the connection is secure
• SEO: Google ranks HTTPS pages higher than pure HTTP pages
• Browser warnings: Chrome and Firefox actively warn about unencrypted pages

How does SSL/TLS work?

1. The browser asks the server for its identity
2. The server sends its SSL certificate
3. The browser checks the certificate with a certificate authority
4. If trusted, an encrypted connection is established
5. All further data is unreadable to third parties

SSL at NexoraHost

With all our products you can use free Let's Encrypt certificates:

• Webspace with Plesk: Under SSL/TLS Certificates → Install Free Certificate
• VPS/Root Server: Via Certbot: certbot --nginx -d your-domain.com

Let's Encrypt vs. Paid Certificates

For 99% of all websites, Let's Encrypt is completely sufficient.

Detailed setup guides can be found in the articles in the left navigation.

Related guides

• Set up webspace
• Change nameservers – domain won't connect
• DNS not working / propagation
• Set up SSL correctly
• SPF, DKIM & DMARC (email)
• Email with your domain
• Make website faster
• Domain & DNS hub

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