What Is an SSL Certificate and Do I Need One?
SSL is what makes your website show 'https://' and the padlock icon. Yes, you need one — and getting it is usually free.
2 min read · Updated 2026-04-15
Short answer
Yes, you need an SSL certificate. It encrypts data between your site and visitors, shows the padlock icon in the browser, and is required by Google to rank well. The good news: most website builders and hosts include it free.
What SSL actually does
SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) encrypts the connection between your website and your visitors' browsers. Without it:
- Data entered on your site (forms, passwords, payments) can be intercepted
- Browsers show a "Not Secure" warning to visitors
- Google ranks your site lower
With SSL, your URL starts with https:// instead of http:// and a padlock appears in the browser.
How to get an SSL certificate
If you use Squarespace, Wix, or Shopify: SSL is included automatically. Nothing to do.
If you use a web host (WordPress):
- Most hosts include a free SSL via Let's Encrypt — check your hosting control panel (cPanel) and enable it
- Bluehost and SiteGround include free SSL with all plans
- If your host charges for SSL, switch hosts — free SSL is standard now
If you bought a domain separately:
- Cloudflare offers free SSL for any domain by adding your site to their network (free plan)
How to check if your SSL is working
Visit your website and look for:
https://at the start of your URL (nothttp://)- A padlock icon in the browser address bar
If you see "Not Secure" — your SSL isn't set up or has expired.