SSL certificate: what it is and why your website needs it
An SSL certificate isn't optional: Google uses it as a ranking factor and customers won't trust your site without it. We explain everything.
What is an SSL certificate?
An SSL certificate encrypts the communication between the user's browser and your server. When your site has SSL, the URL shows https:// and a padlock in the browser.
Why is it mandatory in 2025?
Google Chrome marks any site without SSL as "Not secure." That destroys the visitor's trust before they read a single line of your content. Google also penalizes sites without HTTPS in rankings.
Types of SSL certificates
- DV (Domain Validation): basic, validates only the domain. Ideal for blogs and informational sites.
- OV (Organization Validation): verifies the company. Recommended for businesses.
- EV (Extended Validation): the most secure, shows the company name in the browser bar.
How do you get one?
At andresescobar.net we include free SSL with all our hosting plans. Let's Encrypt certificate with automatic renewal. No extra cost, no worrying about expiration.
Does your current site not have SSL? Contact us and we'll migrate it with zero downtime.