Do You Need an SSL Encryption if You Don't Sell Anything on Your Website?

This is a legitimate concern of most website owners who run their own personal websites. While an SSL security system is very necessary for ecommerce sites and optional for other business sites, it is quite needless for many small sites.

Before we discuss the different criteria for which an SSL is mandatory, it is important to understand what it means in detail.

What is an SSL encryption?

SSL or Secure Sockets Layer is a standard security technology for creating an encrypted connection between a server and a client- usually a web server (website) and a browser (user); or a mail server and a mail client (for example Gmail).

With an SSL encryption in place, sensitive information such as credit card details, medical records, log in details, social security numbers and so on can be transmitted securely. In order to set up this secure connection, the browser and server require an SSL certification.

But how is this done? SSL data is encrypted in such a way that no super computer can crack it easily.

Types of SSL encryptions

There are basically two types of SSL keys which work together to create a secure SSL-encryption. They are the:

-       Asymmetric keys

-       Symmetric keys

Both keys use different types of algorithms and mathematical equations with make them practically impossible to decrypt.

• Asymmetric encryption

An asymmetric encryption, also known as public-key cryptography, utilises a distinct key for both encryption and decryption. Any user can encrypt a message with an encryption key (public key). However, the decryption keys (private keys) are confidential. This is designed so that only the proposed recipient can decrypt the massage. The most common algorithm for encryption is RSA.

• Symmetric encryption

Symmetric encryption (pre-shared key encryption) works by using one key for encrypting and decrypting data. Here, both the sender and recipient use the same key to communicate.

Sounds very complicated, right?

So, when do you need an SSL encryption for your website?

Contrary to popular opinion, an SSL security certificate isn’t only for big ecommerce websites. As a small business owner, encrypting your site has many specific benefits. A website that is protected has three layers of trust:

-       Authentication: It builds credibility and reassures your web visitors they are on a secure page.

-       Data integrity: It guarantees your users that whatever information they share on your site safe and incorruptible.

-       Encryption: The activities of your visitors cannot be seen and intercepted by unauthorised parties.

With these guarantees in place, your website is perceived to be trustworthy and appealing to visitors, even if you are not selling anything. Users will be more willing to stay and engage on your site.

Here are some examples of when you need to have an SSL security certificate

• You sell products on your site (people pay with money cards)
• Your offer memberships (free or paid) such as a gym
• Your visitors are required to submit sensitive data (credit card, private medical records, tests)
• You are a third-party payment processor

If your website is something as simple as a food blog, you may not necessarily need an SSL encryption. However, it will benefit you to get one anyway.

Additional benefits of an SSL secure website

As mentioned before, web visitors have a high trust level for websites with an SSL encryption and are more willing to interact with them.

“Today’s internet user is more savvy and is quick to assess the credibility of a website. You gain competitive edge over other websites in the same business niche.”- Brendan  Web Security Expert from - www.freeparking.co.nz/domain-names/

 But that’s not all.

Improve your SEO rankings with SSL Encryption

Establishing a good search ranking often require plenty of effort fine tuning your website structure, content, and keywords. Now, you make your site more SEO-friendly by simply getting a HTTPS encryption. In August 2014, Google announced that sites with SSL certification will be marked as secure and enjoy better web crawling than other unencrypted sites.

Besides Google’s recognition, sites perceived as ‘safe’ generally receive more web traffic than others and will automatically attract search engine bots. This gives them a better advantage over other sites on search engine result pages.

It is important to note that SSL encryption is not a substitute for normal SEO activities, but merely an added boost.

SSL encryption benefits membership sites

 If you run a membership site such as a fitness club or yoga class, encrypting your members’ personal information will increase your club’s trustworthiness. An SSL encryption encourages members to join and share in your program because they are more comfortable about your site’s security status.

Besides protecting their login credentials, securing your site with an SSL encryption protects any personal information they may add to their membership bio.

Your website may not be for ecommerce, but consider other information you may request from your subscribers. Medical statements, contact addresses and so on.

SSL encryption encourages contact

Just like membership sites, the presence of an SSL certification on your site will encourage your visitors and members to reach out to you. If they have personal inquiries or concerns about aspects of their lives, they will be more open to you because the feel safe on your website. This is quite valid especially if your assistance requires more in-depth information about their life.

The HTTPS and green padlock sign is a sign of security and will garner trust. Your prospective contacts will feel better knowing the information they send isn’t going to some fly-by-night quack. There are trust seals or badges which come with the certification and you can display them on your website.

How do you get an SSL encryption?

There are certified SSL providers you can contact online. To obtain one, you will need to authenticate your identity, business and website ownership. This will depend on the level of SSL validation you want.

You will be required to:

1. Prove you are the owner of the domain you want to secure (ensure all details correspond)
2. Documentation such as bank records, sales, evidence of tax or utility bills and physical address are in order
3. The information in all documents (1 and 2) must be an exact match

You can get an SSL encryption regardless of the type of website you operate, just make sure all your details are in order.