Privacy has become a major concern for consumers with the rise of identity theft and impersonation, thus consumer privacy and security must be treated a major concern for any online store owners.


There are a few eCommerce fundamentals to the conduct of secure business online and one of which is ensuring Consumer Privacy, wherein information exchanged between you — the Online Store Owner — and your Customer must be kept away from unauthorized parties.


Applies to Version(s): ALL


In this article you will learn:

What is an SSL Certificate?

Why Do I Need An SSL Certificate?

How Does an SSL Certificate Work?

How to Add/Purchase an SSL Certificate for Your Cart?


What is an SSL Certificate?


SSL Certificates are small data files that digitally bind a cryptographic key to an organization's details. When installed on a web server, it activates the padlock and the https protocol (over port 443), allowing secure connections from a web server to a browser.


Why Do I Need An SSL Certificate?


Cybersecurity poses a major challenge to online businesses. Hackers are rampant and are becoming more daring in compromising websites — particularly eCommerce websites — where sensitive financial information is exchanged. A simple breach can create huge liability costs and shake customer confidence in a business that’s why all eCommerce sites should use secure sockets layer (SSL) protection.


How Does an SSL Certificate Work?

SSL protects information by encrypting data between two servers. Only the host computer can decrypt the data and only the client computer can verify the server certificate. If the session is interrupted for any reason, the session is broken and must be reestablished. Sites that implement the SSL/TLS protocol display a padlock icon in the address bar.

Note: SSL is more than just a technical tool to provide security for your transactions; it is a trusted name in security. When customers see the SSL icon, they’re reassured that their financial information is safe and secure. This helps build consumer loyalty and confidence in your brand.


How to Add/Purchase an SSL Certificate for Your Cart?

The standard Hosted plan already comes with free SSL. However, if you wish to purchase your own SSL Certificate (which is normal for medium to larger businesses), here's how you can purchase one.


    1. Login to your PinnacleCart Account. Click the drop-down menu beside your account name then select Purchase.purchase


    2. You will see 3 plan options to choose from: Standard, Advanced, and Enterprise.  It also indicates extras that you can purchase, including SSL. Choose the kind of SSL Certificate you want to get by clicking Purchase. 

plan options


    3. If you choose the basic Standard Plan, it already comes with a free PinnacleSSL. However, if you wish to purchase RapidSSL, you can do so by choosing that option under SSL Certificates. You can choose to have it either for 1 year or 2 years.

rapidSSL


    4. You will see the total of your order when you scroll down. To finalize the installation of your SSL Certificate, make sure to check the box to agree with the terms then click the Confirm Purchase button.

confirm purchase



Video

Note: This video is done using the 3.9.0 R2 version of the cart. 




Adding a Rapid SSL Logo To Your Site


If you didn't get your question answered, please contact the Pinnacle Cart Support Team. To submit a ticket, go to the My Account drop-down menu at the top right of the admin area and select Support.