SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) is the standard security technology for establisheing an encrypted link between a web server and a browser. This encrypted link ensures that all data passed between the web server and the browser remain private. Many websites use the protocol to obtain confidential user information, such as credit card numbers. By convention, URLs that require an SSL connection start with "https" instead of "http".

Getting an SSL Certificate

University Information Technology offers both Standard and Extended Validation SSL certificates from DigiCert for purchase by the University community. To purchase a DigiCert certificate, contact UIT at ext. 3-1411, or software@uh.edu. If you have any questions, email the UH DigiCert account administrator at SSL@uh.edu.

SSL FAQs

What pages should I secure using SSL?

The webpages you want to secure are generally those that require the entry of sensitive information, such as passwords, personal information, credit card numbers and other financial information, although some may want to secure an entire set of pages using SSL certificates.

Is there any alternative to SSL?

Secure HTTP is another protocol for transmitting data securely over the World Wide Web. SSL creates a secure connection between a client and a server, over which any amount of data can be sent securely. S-HTTP is designed to transmit individual messages securely.

Both protocols have been approved by the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF) as a standard.