An SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) certificate is a digital certificate that encrypts data transmitted between a website and its visitors. It ensures secure communication, preventing unauthorised access and data breaches. You need an SSL certificate to protect sensitive information such as login credentials, payment details, and personal data. It also builds trust with your website’s visitors by displaying the padlock icon and “https://” in the browser’s address bar, signalling a secure connection. Additionally, SSL certificates can improve your website’s search engine rankings, making it a crucial security and SEO tool.