What is an SSL Certificate?
An SSL certificate authenticates a website’s identity and enables HTTPS encryption. When valid, your browser shows a padlock icon. Certificates are issued by Certificate Authorities like Let’s Encrypt, DigiCert, and Cloudflare.
Why SSL Matters
Without encryption, data on public Wi-Fi or shared networks is visible to anyone. SSL protects login pages, payment forms, and API calls. Google also uses HTTPS as a ranking signal — sites with valid certificates rank higher.
How to Check SSL
Our SSL Certificate Checker shows:
- Certificate status (valid, expiring, or invalid)
- Days remaining
- Issuer name
- Subject Alternative Names (SANs)
Common SSL Issues
Expired Certificate: Browsers show a “Not Secure” warning. Most certificates last 90 days to 2 years.
Domain Mismatch: The www and non-www versions need separate certificates.
Mixed Content: HTTPS page loading HTTP resources triggers browser warnings.
Use the SSL Checker to test any domain before deploying your own site.