A SSL certificate contains the following information:

The domain name for which the certificate was issued.
The owner of the certificate.
The physical location of the owner.
The validity dates of the certificate.

When you connect to a secure web server, the server authenticates itself to the web browser by presenting a digital certificate. The certificate is proof that an independent trusted third party has verified that the website belongs to the company it claims to belong to. A valid certificate gives customers confidence that they are sending personal information securely and to the right place.

SSL certificates can provide you with non-forgeable proof of your website's identity and customer confidence in the integrity/security of your online business. Customers are becoming increasingly aware of the advantages of SSL security and will often not purchase goods from non-secure stores. All major web merchants use SSL security to encourage customers to feel comfortable buying online.