What is an SSL Certificate and why do I need one?

Please note: The questions and answers found here apply only to kikaDESIGN clients.

An SSL certificate (aka Secure Sockets Layer) provides a layer of security between a website and a browser. 

It used to be an optional feature for websites that processed or collected private data but now, that isn’t the case. In 2018, Google started marking any site that does not have an SSL certificate. In some cases, it’s a simple red lock icon in the address bar but in others, the user is actually blocked from viewing the site with a message that states the site is insecure and may be trying to steal the users information.

In summary, purchasing an SSL certificate—even if you don’t collect private information—will save you a lot of time and headaches in the long run.

NOTE: SSL certificates can be purchased from your hosting company for an additional yearly fee (some include it for free). Contact your host for more information.