Understanding SSL/TLS Certificates and HTTPS

Last updated: November 21, 2026 | Reading time: 8 minutes

If you see a small **padlock icon** next to a website address, you’re looking at **HTTPS** in action. This simple padlock is the visual sign that the website has an **SSL/TLS certificate** installed, confirming a secure, encrypted connection. In 2026, HTTPS is the global standard—if your site isn't using it, you're losing customers and trust.

What are SSL and TLS?

**SSL (Secure Sockets Layer)** was the original encryption protocol, but it's been retired due to security vulnerabilities. Its successor, **TLS (Transport Layer Security)**, is what we use today. We still often say 'SSL' out of habit, but all modern certificates are actually **TLS certificates**. These certificates are simply small data files that digitally bind a cryptographic key to an organization's details, enabling two crucial functions:

**Encryption:** Scrambling data so only the intended recipient (your server or the user's browser) can read it.
**Authentication:** Proving the server you're connecting to is who it claims to be.

The Importance of HTTPS in 2026

**HTTPS (Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure)** is just the secure version of HTTP. It ensures all data exchanged, from login credentials and payment information to simple browsing data, is secure. Beyond protecting sensitive information, HTTPS is now mandatory because:

**Browser Warnings:** Major browsers (Chrome, Firefox, Edge) actively warn users away from non-HTTPS sites, often labeling them "Not Secure."
**SEO Ranking:** Google explicitly uses HTTPS as a ranking signal. Secure sites perform better in search results.
**Performance:** Modern TLS protocols like **TLS 1.3** (the current standard) are actually faster and more efficient than older, unencrypted connections.

Types of SSL/TLS Certificates Explained

Not all certificates are created equal. The difference lies in the level of verification the Certificate Authority (CA) performs on the organization requesting it:

Domain Validated (DV)

The simplest and quickest. The CA only verifies the applicant owns the domain name. It’s perfect for blogs, personal sites, and small businesses that don't collect sensitive data.

Organization Validated (OV)

Requires verification of the domain ownership *and* the organization’s existence and legitimacy. Provides a higher level of trust, suitable for public-facing corporate websites.

Extended Validation (EV)

The highest level of verification, requiring a rigorous, standardized vetting process. Though modern browsers have simplified their display, EV certificates are still preferred by large enterprises, banks, and e-commerce sites to establish maximum customer confidence.

Get Your SSL/TLS Certificate Validated

Ensure your certificate is properly installed, up-to-date (using TLS 1.3), and configured correctly to avoid browser warnings. Our assessment platform checks all certificate health metrics.

Check My Certificate Status

Conclusion

In the digital landscape of 2026, an SSL/TLS certificate is not an optional add-on—it’s the **foundational pillar** of website security and credibility. Installing and maintaining one is the fastest, most effective way to protect your data, secure your user's trust, and meet baseline technical standards.