A secure socket layer (SSL) certificate is a digital credential that authenticates the identity of a website and encrypts information sent to the server using SSL/TLS technology. This encryption ensures that data transmitted between a user’s browser and the website, such as login credentials or credit card numbers, remains private and protected from unauthorized access. When a website has an SSL certificate, users see https:// in the URL and often a padlock icon, indicating a secure connection. This trust indicator is crucial for protecting online data and building user confidence in website security.