Performing a quick SSL information check for websites is an essential practice for ensuring secure online browsing and protecting sensitive data. SSL checking allows you to easily verify the validity and encryption strength of SSL certificates, providing you with peace of mind and confidence in the security of your online interactions.
What is SSL Certificate
An SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) certificate is a digital certificate that serves as a critical security measure for websites. It provides an encrypted connection between a user's browser and the website server, ensuring that any data exchanged remains private and secure.
When a website has an SSL certificate installed, the URL typically begins with "https://" instead of "http://," with the additional "s" standing for "secure." This certificate is essential for protecting sensitive information such as personal details, login credentials, credit card numbers, and other confidential data from unauthorized access or interception.
How SSL Certificate Works
The SSL certificate works by using cryptographic algorithms to establish an encrypted connection. When a user accesses an SSL-enabled website, their browser and the server perform a series of handshakes to establish a secure connection. This process involves the exchange of a public key and a private key, which are used to encrypt and decrypt the transmitted data.
The SSL certificate verifies the authenticity of the website, confirming that it is trusted and operated by a legitimate entity. This validation instills confidence in visitors, assuring them that their information is protected and that they are interacting with a secure website. Ultimately, having an SSL certificate is crucial for maintaining online security, enhancing user trust, and safeguarding sensitive information on websites.
Checking SSL Information of a Website in Various Web Browsers
Google Chrome
To begin, visit a website that has an SSL certificate enabled.
Then, click on the padlock symbol located to the left of the website's URL.
From the drop-down menu click on Connection is secure option.
After that press the button ‘Certificate is valid’
A popup window will open that provides information about the SSL certificate of the website in the General sector.
You can also find more detail on the Details tab.
Brave Browser
The process is identical to Chrome Browser, as Brave is based on Chromium. First, click on the padlock icon beside the URL.
Now click Connection is secure.
Then the Certificate is valid option.
Here in the General tab, you will see details about the Sites SSL Certificate.
For more detail, you can click on the Details tab.
Mozilla Firefox
Navigate to the website whose SSL certificate you want to verify and click on the padlock symbol on the left of the URL bar.
Click on the 'Connection secure' option from the drop-down menu.
After that press the 'More Information' button.
A new window will open. Click on View Certificate under the Security tab.
You will now see detailed information about the website's SSL certificate.
Microsoft Edge
This process is also identical to Chrome and Brave, as Edge is also based on Chromium:
Navigate to the website you want to check then click on the padlock symbol to the left of the URL bar.
Go for Connection is secure option from the drop-down menu.
Just after that hit the symbol that will show you the SSL certificate of the site you have chosen.
In the General tab, you will get most of the information you are looking for.
Press the Details tab for additional information.
Safari
Go to the website you want to check and click on the padlock to the left of the URL bar.
Click on Show Certificate option in the popup box.
A window will appear that provides details about the SSL certificate.
Final Words
When it comes to ensuring secure website browsing, it is crucial for you to perform a quick SSL information check. Follow the provided steps for popular web browsers such as Chrome, Brave, Firefox, Edge, and Safari, allowing you to easily access and verify SSL certificate details. By verifying the encrypted connection between your browser and the website, you can effectively protect your sensitive data from potential threats.