SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) is a security protocol designed to send or receive sensitive information over the internet. Typically SSL is used by websites which collect personal or financial (e.g. credit card) information and its use is recognised by the https://URL.
Encryption is a mathematical process of coding and decoding information. The number of bits (40-bit, 56-bit, 128-bit, 256-bit) tells you the size of the key. Like a longer password, a larger key has more possible combinations. In fact, 128-bit encryption is one trillion times one trillion times stronger than 40-bit encryption.
When an encrypted session is established, the strength is determined by the capability of the web browser, SSL certificate, web server, and client computer operating system. Most SSL certificates are capable of strong encryption (128-bit or higher).
The browser’s padlock plus https in the address bar show that a site is encrypted, but how do Internet users know it’s your web site? With concerns about identity theft and online imposters on the rise, how do users know your web site should be trusted? They look for trust marks that they recognize and your verified name in the browser address bar.
To give your users the confidence to click, display the Thawte® Trusted Site Seal, a globally recognized trust mark. The seal is a bit of code that can be posted on any or all pages within a domain that is secured by a Thawte® SSL Certificate.
For maximum trust, choose an SSL Web Server Certificate with EV, issued with the industry’s highest standard of authentication. Extended Validation works with high-security browsers to turn the address bar green, showing that it is safe to proceed. When your customers see the green address bar combined with the Thawte Trusted Site Seal, they will have many reasons to trust your site and complete their transactions.
A basic SSL-123 is typically used for intranet applications where encryption is
required but there is no need to verify trust. A Standard Webserver Certificate is
the product typically used by ecommerce websites as it provides encryption and a
good level of trust. The EV Certificate represents the ultimate in trust (and cost!)
and so is used by banks, payment portal providers and very large ecommerce websites.
SSL certificates keep online interactions private even though they travel across the public Internet. They also help customers gain the confidence to transact with your web site. The right SSL certificate depends on the level of assurance your customers need and the minimum level of encryption your organization requires.
Please contact a member of our team who will be happy to advise which SSL certificate is correct for your requirements.