How SSL Certificates Work

1. A browser or server attempts to connect to a Website, a.k.a. Web server, secured with SSL. The browser/server requests that the Web server identify itself.
2. 
   The Web server sends the browser/server a copy of its SSL certificate.
3. 
   The browser/server checks to see whether or not it trusts the SSL certificate. If so, it sends a message to the Web server.
4. 
   The Web server sends back a digitally signed acknowledgement to start an SSL encrypted session.
5. 
   Encrypted data is shared between the browser/server and the Web server.

There are many benefits to using SSL Certificates. Namely, SSL customers:

• Get HTTPs which elicits a stronger Google ranking
• Create safer experiences for your customers
• Build customer trust and improve conversions
• Protect both customer and internal data
• Encrypt browser-to-server and server-to-server communication
• Increase security of your mobile and cloud apps

To learn more, check out our Understanding Digital Certificates & Secure Sockets Layer paper, which explains what secure sockets layer (SSL) digital certificates are and why they are essential to providing secure online transactions.