what is ssl and do i need it
ssl is the technology that makes website addresses start with https:// instead of http://. you need it.
what ssl does
ssl encrypts the connection between your website and the person viewing it. data passed between them cannot be read by a third party.
for an informational website — a site that displays your services and contact details — ssl protects any information submitted through your contact form.
why it matters beyond security
google uses ssl as a ranking signal. sites without ssl rank lower than equivalent sites with ssl.
browsers flag non-ssl sites as "not secure" in the address bar. visitors see this warning before they see your content. some leave immediately.
what it looks like
a padlock icon in the browser address bar. the address starts with https://. that is it. visitors do not think about it. they notice when it is absent.
what ssl costs
ssl certificates can cost £50 to £200 per year from commercial providers. let's encrypt provides free ssl certificates. most competent hosting setups use let's encrypt.
computer web installs and renews ssl automatically. included in hosting. no separate cost.
what happens if ssl lapses
the padlock disappears. browsers show a security warning. the site still works but looks untrustworthy. google deprioritises it.
computer web monitors ssl renewal. it does not lapse on sites we manage.