Short answer: An SSL certificate (technically TLS) encrypts the connection between a visitor's browser and your website, so passwords, card details and messages cannot be read in transit. It also proves your site is the domain it claims to be. Browsers show a padlock when it works and a "Not secure" warning when it is missing.
What happens when someone opens your site#
- The browser connects to your server over HTTPS.
- The server presents its certificate.
- The browser checks the certificate is valid and issued for your domain.
- The two agree on a private key, and all traffic is encrypted.
Why a small business needs SSL#
- It removes the "Not secure" warning that scares customers.
- It protects logins and payments.
- HTTPS is a Google ranking signal.
- Payment gateways and browsers expect it.
Free or paid SSL?#
Free SSL | Paid SSL | |
|---|---|---|
Encryption | Yes | Yes |
Included with hosting | Yes, on every Ruachost plan | No |
Wildcard coverage | Rarely | Yes (wildcard product) |
Typical use | Blogs, small sites, stores | Sites hosted elsewhere, many subdomains |
Every Ruachost hosting plan includes free SSL. If you need a paid certificate, Ruachost sells RapidSSL at ₦35,000 per year and RapidSSL Wildcard at ₦223,000 per year, payable in naira. See the SSL options.
How to fix a "Not secure" warning#
- Check a certificate is installed and has not expired.
- Make sure your site address starts with https://.
- Redirect http:// traffic to https://.
- Fix mixed content, meaning images or scripts still loading over http.
- If you host with Ruachost and the warning stays, contact support.
SSL protects the connection to your website. It does not protect your email. For that, read DKIM, SPF and DMARC explained. Comparing providers? See which company offers SSL protection with web hosting.
