What is is an SSL?
SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) is the standard security technology for establishing an encrypted link between a web server and a browser. This link ensures that all data passed between the web server and browsers remain private and integral. SSL and Secure Certificates provide security for your website by encrypting communications between the server and the person visiting the website.
In order to use SSL, you need to have an SSL Certificate (also known as a Secure Certificate) installed on your server Firefox, Safari or Google Chrome.
If your site is hosted on a Reseller package, VPS, or Dedicated Server, then you will also need a dedicated IP address for each SSL required.
What is it used for?
There are two main reasons why you would need an SSL Certificate. The first and most common reason is because you want to accept credit card payments on your website. The second reason is that you may have confidential information that you want to keep secure while it is being accessed via the web. SSL Certificates also help to protect your passwords from being intercepted, when typed into a secure login page.