SSL/TLS Certificate Monitoring

What is an SSL/TLS certificate?

SSL (Secure Sockets Layer), widely replaced by TLS (Transport Layer Security), is a cryptographic protocol that encrypts internet traffic and verifies the server identity. Although today most websites are using TLS certificates, they are commonly referred to as SSL certificates.

This protocol enables a website to use secure HTTPS instead of HTTP. The certificate establishes a link between a web server and the browser so that all data passed between them remains private. It ensures that only the visitor or the website can see and access what the user types.

SSL certificates are mandatory for sending sensitive information over the internet, like credit cards. Most SSL certificates purchased are available for one to two years and need to be renewed.

What happens if your SSL certificate expires?

Your website will display an SSL error such as "Your Connection is Not Private."

Without the certificate, customers won't be able to verify the ownership of the website and won't know if they connect securely to your website. They will think that the website is not trusted or is down. It could generate a loss in reputation, loss of customers, and loss in profits. Exomonitor can monitor and alert you before this happens.

The consequences of expired certificates

• Customer trust: Visitors see "Not Secure" warnings and may leave immediately
• Payment processing: If you accept payments without a valid SSL certificate, you could face penalties, including heavy monthly fines from credit card companies due to PCI DSS violation
• SEO ranking: SSL is part of Google's search ranking algorithm. Without a valid certificate, search engines will penalize your SEO ranking
• Revenue loss: Customers cannot complete purchases or submit sensitive information

How to avoid SSL certificate expiry

Use an SSL certificate monitoring tool. You can create an SSL/TLS certificate monitor using Exomonitor in just 5 minutes. The monitor will send you an alert to your email two weeks before the expiration date, so you will have plenty of time to renew it.