How to Get SSL for a Website

The purpose of an SSL certificate is to guarantee that a third party can't read the data you send on your computer through your browser to the particular website. If you have a website that collects sensitive data such as an online store that collects credit card information or personal information such as a social security number, you need to get SSL, also known as a Secure Socket Layer, for your website. Read on to learn more.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Buy your SSL for your website. There are several companies that sell SSL online such as Verisign or Geo Trust. You may also be able to purchase a SSL certificate through your existing website hosting company.
2. Contact your website hosting company to generate a CSR, known as a "Certificate Signing Request." When you purchase your SSL, you need to enter your CSR. The information for the SSL and CSR must match exactly.
3. After you enter your CSR, verify your identity to the SSL company. This can be a little overwhelming and usually requires lots of hoop jumping. However, once you've passed their screening tests your certificate should be ready.
4. Contact your web hosting company to send them your SSL certificate so they can reserve an IP address for you. They can then install your certificate on your site for you.