An SSL certificate (Secure Sockets Layer certificate) is a digital file installed on a web server that allows for a secure, encrypted connection between a website and a user's browser, essentially verifying the identity of the website and protecting sensitive information like login credentials and credit card details transmitted online by scrambling the data during transmission.
An SSL certificate ensures that any data shared between your site and its users is encrypted. This means things like passwords, payment details, or contact form entries are protected from being intercepted.
SSL certificates are important to have to provide your site with extra security, but it also helps how search engines and visitors see your site. The little padlock icon in the browser address bar shows your site is safe to use, and Google tends to favor secure sites in search results.