What is SSL?
SSL is the security technology that encrypts the connection between a visitor's browser and your website, shown by the padlock icon and https in your address bar. It protects any information visitors submit and is required for customer trust and for Google to rank your site well.
SSL in one sentence
SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) is a security certificate that encrypts data traveling between your website and your visitors' browsers, indicated by the padlock icon next to your web address and the 's' in https (as opposed to plain http).
Why customers and Google both care about it
Without SSL, browsers actively warn visitors that a site is 'not secure', which understandably scares people away, especially before they submit a contact form or make a purchase. Google also uses SSL as a ranking signal, meaning sites without it are placed at a disadvantage in search results compared to secured competitors.
How Origin Labs handles SSL
Every website we build includes a free SSL certificate as a standard part of our free lifetime hosting, with no separate purchase or annual renewal fee required from you. This is one of several security and trust essentials we consider non-negotiable for any professional business website.
Common Questions
Do I need to pay extra for SSL?
No. SSL is included free with every Origin Labs website as part of our free lifetime hosting, with no separate certificate purchase or renewal needed.
What happens if a website does not have SSL?
Browsers show a 'not secure' warning to visitors, which damages trust significantly, and Google ranks the site lower in search results compared to secured sites.
Does SSL protect customer payment information too?
Yes, SSL encrypts any data submitted through your website, including contact forms and checkout information on e-commerce sites, protecting it during transmission.