A Secure Server is a special web server that uses SSL or Secure Sockets Layer encryption.  It prevents outside users from viewing the information sent between the browser and the server.  Typically a Secure Server is used in a commercial environment to secure credit card and financial data.  It can also be used to secure sensitive information from prying eyes.

Technically, yes.  Any site can have a secure component.  We offer Private and Shared SSL security for Standard and Enhanced Packages on Hostus.  Due to the extra time and processing power used by the SSL process, we only offer Shared SSL on our Basic Package.  Shared SSL uses the Hostus Certificate and Private SSL requires your own Certificate.

The actual set up takes 5 minutes, getting the certificate takes quite a bit longer.  The process of getting a certificate is a little like getting a credit card.  It's not impossible, or even that difficult, but the Certificate Authority (Verisign, Thawte, etc.) is liable if one of their clients commits fraud.  The Certificate Authority will do their best to verify all the information that you must provide to ensure that you are legitimate and trustworthy.

A Digital Certificate is the piece of "electronic code" that tells your clients browser (Internet Explorer or Netscape) who you are and how to make the connection secure.

In order to purchase your own Digital Certificate, fill out our SSL Request Form and we will contact you for any additional information required by the Certificate Authority.

That depends on the Certificate Authority and the level of encryption you choose to use.  The cost will be determined at the time of order.