SSL, TLS, and HTTPS are commonly mentioned together when discussing website security, but each plays a different role in protecting your website. Understanding how they work helps you keep your site secure while ensuring your visitors’ data remains private.
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What is SSL?
SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) was the first widely used protocol for encrypting information sent between a browser and a web server. Although the term “SSL Certificate” is still used today, the SSL protocol itself has been replaced.
What is TLS?
TLS (Transport Layer Security) is the modern version of SSL. It offers stronger, faster, and more reliable encryption, providing better protection against cyberattacks. When you purchase or use an SSL Certificate today, you are actually using TLS.
What is HTTPS?
Once your website has installed a valid SSL/TLS certificate, it can be accessed over HTTPS (Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure). HTTPS is the secure version of HTTP, and ensures all data transferred between your visitors and your server is encrypted, authenticated, and protected from interception.
At Domains.co.za, a selection of our hosting plans includes Free SSL Certificates powered by the latest TLS standards. This means your website benefits from secure, encrypted connections from the moment it goes live, no advanced configuration required. Visitors see the trusted padlock icon in their browser, which helps to reinforce confidence in your brand.
Additional Information
How SSL, TLS, And HTTPS Work Together
Domains.co.za ensures your website uses the most updated version of TLS to maintain industry-leading security and performance. With SSL/TLS encryption and HTTPS enabled automatically, all communication to and from your website remains private and fully authenticated.
Key points include:
- TLS is the modern replacement for SSL, although the term “SSL Certificate” is still used for convenience.
- HTTPS and the browser padlock indicate that your site is secure and that its certificate is valid.
- TLS 1.3 support provides faster, more efficient connections with stronger encryption.
- Improved SEO: Search engines such as Google rank HTTPS-enabled websites more favourably.
- Automatic protection: AutoSSL handles certificate installation and renewal for you, ensuring your site stays secure throughout the year.
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