SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) is the standard security technology for establishing an encrypted link between a web server and a browser. This link ensures that all data passed between the web server and browsers remain private. This is important for websites that contain personal information including information uploaded by users. Payment and transaction information is also sensitive and should be protected; however, if the payment is done through an external site (such as PayPal) , then encryption isn’t needed.
- As a general most websites in the Humanities department do not need encryption because they do not use functionalities such as user uploads/submissions or payment information/transactions.
- It is important to know that there is a fee for encryption arbitrary domains (like our .byu.edu sites) and getting funding for the encryption is difficult.
- In the rare case that the website does need encryption, speak with your supervisor to obtain approval and coordinate funding.