What is the primary purpose of an SSL certificate?

The primary purpose of an SSL certificate is to authenticate the identity of a website and encrypt data transmitted between users and the site. When a website has an SSL certificate, it means that it has undergone a validation process to verify its legitimacy, helping users trust that they are interacting with the correct entity. This authentication is crucial in preventing malicious actors from impersonating the website.

Furthermore, SSL encryption protects sensitive information, such as personal details or payment information, ensuring that data exchanged is secure and cannot be intercepted by third parties. This feature is vital for maintaining user privacy and security, especially in online transactions. Hence, the combination of authentication and encryption underscores the SSL certificate's role in creating a safe browsing environment.