What is Let’s Encrypt and what is it for?
Let’s Encrypt started as a project at Mozilla in collaboration with the University of Michigan back in 2012. However, it wasn’t until 2015 that the first certificates were issued at the same location. Let’s Encrypt is an automated certificate authority that is free and run by the Internet Security Research Group (ISRG) for the benefit of the people. The main principles of the service include the aforementioned automation, security, transparency, openness and collaboration. This is all made possible by sponsors and donors, of which there are more than 100, including various Internet giants. The main goal of Let’s Encrypt is to create a secure web where it is impossible to “eavesdrop” on other people’s communications and where encryption is considered normal and commonplace.
How do I get this certificate?
There are several ways to get a Let’s Encrypt certificate. One option is to access your server’s console and use the Certbot ACME client, which is able to request the certificate, verify domain ownership, and set up commonly used web servers in about 30 seconds without shutting down the system.
The certificate issued is valid for 90 days, with the proviso that it can of course be renewed free of charge (and this can also be done automatically).
Either way, some technical skill and experience is required. But you don’t need to worry about that, because at Railsformers we focus on implementing the Let’s Encrypt certificate. So, if you want to make sure your website is as secure as possible, there’s nothing easier than contacting us to discuss your options. We’ll take care of everything else for you.