What is a SSL certificate?
SSL stands for “Secure Sockets Layer” and is the S on the end of “HTTPS” which adds a layer of protection to sending and receiving information through the internet (found at the beginning of the URL in the address bar).
The SSL certificate will encrypt data from the user (like when they fill out a form to request a service) and prevent that data from being hijacked while it is sent to the server your website lives on and vice versa.
Why do you need one?
Back in 2017, Google made it so their browser (Google Chrome) will show that a website is not secure, as it is not a good idea to input any personal information onto an insecure website.
Where can you get it?
Most web hosts will provide a free SSL certificate when you purchase hosting included with the domain. But you can purchase an SSL certificate and apply it to your website at any point in time.