An SSL certificate is the component that allows your website to work over HTTPS instead of HTTP. When HTTPS is active, the browser shows a padlock next to the URL, indicating that the connection between the visitor and the server is encrypted.
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 authenticates your website: it helps confirm that the visitor is really talking to your server and not to a malicious intermediary.
- It builds trust: the padlock and HTTPS are visual signals that users associate with safe websites, especially online stores.
- 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, any serious website should run on HTTPS. Modern browsers warn users when a site still uses plain HTTP.
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.