The padlock in the browser means the connection to your site is encrypted. Without it, browsers warn visitors, and forms are not safe to use.

What it does

An SSL or TLS certificate lets the browser confirm the site is the real one and encrypts what passes between the visitor and the site, such as form entries and logins.

Why it matters to you

Browsers mark sites without it as not secure, search engines prefer secure sites, and many forms and payment tools will not work without it.

Keep it renewed

Certificates expire, and an expired one shows visitors a frightening warning.

  • Use automatic renewal where your host offers it
  • Set a calendar reminder if renewal is manual
  • Check that www and the plain domain both work
  • Redirect all http addresses to https