An SSL certificate is what puts the little padlock next to your web address and makes it start with https://.
Why it matters
- It encrypts information sent between visitors and your website, like contact form messages.
- Browsers may warn visitors that a site without it is “Not secure”.
- Google prefers secure websites.
Many hosting companies include SSL certificates for free. If your site doesn’t show the padlock, ask your host or web designer to switch it on.