SSL certificate

An SSL certificate secures data between the server of a website and an internet browser, for example Chrome. SSL stands for Secure Sockets Layer, so you actually add a secure layer to your website. An SSL certificate is bound to a domain. For each SSL certificate you need a unique IP address, but you can move an SSL certificate to another IP address or another server. You can also install an SSL certificate on several IP addresses at the same time. 

With the help of an SSL certificate data can be saved without the intervention of external systems. This way a website is better protected against cyber attacks or fraud. 

With an SSL certificate, you don't have to worry about the use of passwords or personal data. You can recognise an SSL certificate by the URL of the website. When this starts with HTTPS, the website is secured with an SSL certificate. This is not the case with HTTP.

A web hosting provider usually arranges the application of an SSL certificate. You can also request an SSL certificate yourself, but often you have to install it yourself.