How to Check the SSL Information of Websites?

In our contemporary world, where everything finds its way through the internet, both website owners and users have to understand as well as verify SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) certificates. SSL certificates are ways of confirming if data sent from a user’s browser to a web server is being secured from access by other people. 

This article will discuss how you can check the SSL details for various websites so that you can surf without any fear.

What is SSL, and Why is it Important?

Website security heavily relies on SSL encryption to prevent unauthorized access to sensitive information. The URLs of such websites using SSL begin with https:// unlike those starting with http:// which are insecure. The remaining “s” means “secure” meaning thereby communications between the browser and website server are encrypted.

Without an SSL certificate, there is no way for visitors to trust a website. When customers see a padlock icon at their browser’s address bar, they know that they are safe, hence increasing a site’s trustworthiness, thereby increasing the chances of them showing interest in it more often than not.

Why Should You Check SSL Information?

Here are several reasons why checking SSL info is crucial:

Security Assurance: 

SSL validation fosters authenticity online, hence minimizing the loss of online information.

Trust Building:

A valid SSL certificate to a website owner implies his customers’ data is safe, and hence worth the trust in it.

Compliance: 

Legal frameworks on data protection require all sectors with their websites to possess an SSL certificate.

SEO Benefits: 

Social search engines like Google rank secure sites high if they contain current SSL certificates.

Now we get into various methods used to verify SSL particulars of any web page exist.

Using the Browser's Address Bar

One of the easiest ways of checking any site’s SSL certificate is through immediate browser detection. Most contemporary web browsers provide a very fast means for SSL context access.

1. Look for the Padlock Icon:

For most browsers, if your site has done any legitimate HTTPS certification; you will see its address space showing an image of padlock along with the link.

A summary of the SSL certificate may be viewed there by clicking on the padlock icon, which will inform whether the connection is secure as well as some elementary data about the certificate.

2. Detailed SSL Certificate Information:

More detailed information can be received by clicking on the padlock and then clicking on “Certificate” or More Information (depending on your browser).

In this case, a window will show up displaying such details as who issued the certificate, the type of SSL certificate, and how long it remains valid.

2. Using Online SSL Tools

Numerous online tools provide extensive information about SSLs through URLs only. Here are some widely-known ones:

1. SSL Labs’ SSL Test:

SSL Labs provides an all-inclusive examination of the SSL that gives comprehensive information about the SSL certificate on a website.

To utilize this tool one needs to go to [SSL Labs](https://www.ssllabs.com/ssltest/), insert the URL of your choice, and execute the test.

For instance, there will be a report containing; the time for which the certificate is valid, the strength of encryption used, and supported protocols among others while still evaluating the overall quality of systematized safe socket layer settings.

2. Why No Padlock:

The big unplanned array is crushed on discoveries similar to solid plates, this security and security troubles.

You can easily scan a site for issues by visiting [Why No Padlock](https://www.whynopadlock.com/), where you enter the URL, and it will provide a list of all the modification needs.

3. SSL Checker:

SSL Checker is one of those tools that can quickly assess an SSL certificate.

To use this tool, simply go to [SSL Checker](https://www.sslshopper.com/ssl-checker.html), input the domain of your website, and it will give you all information related to the SSL including when it started being in force, the name of its issuer as well as any other possible problems.

4. Using Developer Tools

For individuals with greater technical expertise, most browsers come with integrated developer tools that help inspect an SSL certificate in more detail.

1. Google Chrome:

The site that you intend to check should be opened up.

To bring out the Developer Tools, right-click anywhere on the page and select "Inspect".

Visit the Security tab; here you will find data concerning SSL/TLS protocol, certificate, and cryptography.

2. Mozilla Firefox:

Like Chrome, you can right-click and select “Inspect” or press `Ctrl+Shift+I`.

To find SSL certificate details, go to the tab called “Security”.

3. Microsoft Edge:

In the same vein, Edge’s Developer Tools can be accessed by right-clicking and selecting “Inspect”.

To view SSL information, navigate to the tab called “Security”.

4. Checking SSL on Mobile Devices

You can also check SSL information on mobile devices, although the process is a bit different depending on the browser:

Safari (iOS): 

Tap on the padlock icon in the address bar to view SSL information.

Chrome (Android):

Tap the padlock icon, then select “Details” to see more information.

5. Automating SSL Checks

By implementing automated certificates, you can relieve yourself from spending hours checking SSL certificates. A perfect choice for this task would be a tool such as Let’s Monitor or UptimeRobot which sends email reminders regarding any upcoming problems like configuration problems or expiration of certificates.

Conclusion!

SSL certificates are essential in maintaining the security and integrity of websites. Periodic review of SSL information is a recommended practice that can prevent security risks to both users and internet site owners. Whether it is through built-in browser features, online tools, or developer tools, verification of SSL certificates should be within your regular online routine. Doing this will enable you to surf the web with higher confidence and thus uphold the most stringent website security standards.