An SSL/TLS certificate is a digital file for websites that proves identity and enables encryption, creating a secure, locked connection (HTTPS) between a user's browser and the web server, protecting sensitive data like logins or payments from eavesdropping using public/private key cryptography during an "SSL Handshake". It acts like a digital ID card, verifying the site is who it claims to be and scrambling data so only the intended recipient can read it. What an SSL Certificate Does:
- Authentication: Verifies the website's identity, preventing spoofing.
- Encryption: Scrambles data (passwords, credit cards) as it travels, making it unreadable to attackers.
- Trust: Enables the secure "HTTPS" protocol and shows users the site is safe (padlock icon).
