SSL stands for Secure Socket Layer. What this means in layman terms is that when an Internet Browser connects to a website using SSL, uploaded in the Internet, the transfer of data between the browser and the server is encrypted. It is encrypted so no one, who is possibly intercepting the data transfer between the two, can read it.

If you have an active SSL certificate on your website, it should have an address like this:

https://yourdomain.com

Also, you would notice a padlock symbol at the low right end of the browser window. If you go with your mouse pointer over it, you will see the name of the authority that has issued it. Also by double-clicking it, you will see further details about the certificate