SSL Certificate – Frequently Asked Questions

IMPORTANT: This article is intended for users with limited knowledge of SSL certificates, to help them understand their basic function and importance for website security. If you're looking for more advanced information, we recommend exploring the related knowledge base articles. 

What is an SSL Certificate? 

SSL is a technology that protects the information we send and receive online. It is primarily used on websites to ensure that data (such as passwords or credit card details) cannot be read or altered by third parties. 

Key Features: 

• Encryption: Makes data unreadable to anyone attempting to intercept it. 
• Secure Connection: Ensures you are connected to the genuine website. 
• Data Integrity: Prevents data from being altered during transfer. 

---

Why do I need an SSL Certificate? 

When you interact with a website (e.g., by filling out a form), your data is transmitted from your browser to the website's server. If this communication is not encrypted, anyone with access to it—whether human or automated—could read the data. SSL encrypts this information, preventing unauthorized access to sensitive details such as email addresses and card numbers. 

---

What is a Certification Authority (CA)? 

Certification Authorities are official entities responsible for issuing SSL certificates. Papaki partners with the globally recognized authority, Sectigo. 

---

What is a CSR? 

A CSR (Certificate Signing Request) is a file that includes your public key and is used to request an SSL certificate. It is generated along with the Private Key and is typically in .CSR format. It appears as: 

-----BEGIN CERTIFICATE REQUEST----- 
-----END CERTIFICATE REQUEST----- 
 

---

What is a Private Key? 

The Private Key is a .KEY file used to decrypt your SSL certificate. If you suspect it has been compromised, the certificate should be reissued. It appears as: 

-----BEGIN RSA PRIVATE KEY----- 
-----END RSA PRIVATE KEY----- 
 

---

What is the CRT? 

The CRT file is the certificate file that must be installed on your server along with the Private Key. It appears as: 

-----BEGIN CERTIFICATE----- 
-----END CERTIFICATE----- 
 

---

What is an Intermediate Certificate (CA Bundle)? 

In addition to the CSR, KEY, and CRT files, an Intermediate Certificate (also called a CA Bundle) is often required. This file contains the authority’s validation chain. If you’re using Papaki hosting with a Sectigo SSL certificate, this file is automatically managed and does not need to be manually installed. Its format is the same as the CRT file. 

---

How can I get an SSL Certificate for my website? 

Papaki offers a wide range of SSL certificates. If you're unsure which one is best for your site, feel free to contact us via phone, live chat, or by submitting a support request through your Papaki account. 

---

I’ve already purchased an SSL certificate – what is next? 

You need to issue your certificate and then install it on your hosting package. You can follow the relevant activation and installation guides available on our knowledge base.