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

Set up SSL/HTTPS correctly – certificates, HSTS and secure configuration with NexoraHost.

# 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?

    - The browser asks the server for its identity
- The server sends its SSL certificate
- The browser checks the certificate with a certificate authority
- If trusted, an encrypted connection is established
- 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

    
        Feature
        Let's Encrypt
        Paid
    

    
        Cost
        Free
        50-500€ per year
    

    
        Validity
        90 days (automatically renewable)
        1-2 years
    

    
        Browser trust
        Identical
        Identical
    

    
        Warranty
        None
        Financial protection in case of misuse
    

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](/en/webspace/set-up)
- [Change nameservers – domain won't connect](/en/domain/nameserver)
- [DNS not working / propagation](/en/domain/dns-what-is-it)
- [Set up SSL correctly](/en/domain/ssl-einrichten)
- [SPF, DKIM & DMARC (email)](/en/domain/spf-dkim-dmarc)
- [Email with your domain](/en/webspace/mail)
- [Make website faster](/en/webspace/website-schneller-machen)
- [Domain & DNS hub](/en/domain)

*Order webspace: [nexorahost.com](https://nexorahost.com)*