An SSL certificate is the older name for what is now more accurately called a TLS certificate (Transport Layer Security). It is the digital certificate that allows your website to work over HTTPS instead of HTTP. When HTTPS is active, the connection between the visitor's browser and your server is encrypted, so people on the network cannot normally read or alter the data in transit.
The process is automatic for visitors: they do not need to install a certificate or change any browser settings.
What is the purpose of an SSL certificate?
- It encrypts communication: data exchanged between the visitor's browser and your server travels encrypted, making interception much harder.
- It helps authenticate the domain: a certificate issued by a trusted certificate authority helps the browser verify that the connection is intended for that domain. It does not guarantee that the website's content or owner is trustworthy.
- It preserves integrity: TLS helps detect changes to data while it travels between the browser and the server.
- It builds trust: HTTPS is an expected baseline for websites, especially when visitors sign in or submit personal information.
- It can help SEO: Google has treated HTTPS as a ranking signal for years.
Does Bacan include free SSL?
Yes. All Bacan hosting plans, including the free plan, include a free SSL certificate through Let's Encrypt. It is usually activated automatically when the domain is added to the control panel and renewed without manual action.
What is the difference between HTTP and HTTPS?
- HTTP is the basic communication protocol. Data can travel in readable form if intercepted.
- HTTPS adds an SSL or TLS encryption layer so the same communication is protected.
Today, websites should run on HTTPS by default. Browsers may warn users when a site still uses plain HTTP, especially when the page asks for information.
How do I activate SSL at Bacan?
In most cases, SSL is activated automatically when you add the domain to the Bacan control panel and your DNS is set correctly. If it is not active yet, you can usually enable it manually:
- In cPanel: go to SSL/TLS or AutoSSL and run the automatic process.
- In DirectAdmin: go to SSL Certificates and enable the Let's Encrypt certificate for the domain.
If you are unsure, contact Bacan support and we will help you activate it.