An SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) certificate establishes an encrypted connection between a web server and a user’s browser. By using HTTPS instead of HTTP: Data Encryption: Ensures that sensitive information (passwords, credit card numbers) is transmitted securely. Data Integrity: Prevents tampering of information in transit. User Trust: Modern browsers mark HTTPS sites as “secure,” boosting credibility. SEO Benefits: Search engines like Google prefer HTTPS sites.