How an SSL certificate works
An SSL (TLS) certificate encrypts the connection between the visitor and the server: passwords, card details and forms cannot be read in transit, and the browser shows the padlock and the https:// prefix. Without it, Chrome and Safari flag the site as “Not secure” and Google ranks it lower.
Certificates differ in what the issuer verifies before signing. RapidSSL checks only that you control the domain (DV) and is issued in minutes. True BusinessID also verifies the company (OV): the company name appears in the certificate and DigiCert backs it with a financial warranty. Wildcard covers every subdomain with one certificate. All are issued for 1 year and renew from the client area.