What is e-Commerce? What are its advantages and disadvantages? Explain the terms Digital Certificate and SSL in the context of eCommerce.

E-commerce, short for electronic commerce, refers to the buying and selling of goods and services over the internet. It enables businesses and consumers to conduct transactions electronically, without the need for physical interaction.

Advantages of E-commerce:

• Increased reach and accessibility for businesses and consumers.
• Convenience of shopping anytime, anywhere.
• Cost-effectiveness for businesses in terms of reduced overheads.
• Wide variety of products and services available.
• Faster and more efficient transactions.

Disadvantages of E-commerce:

• Security concerns such as data breaches and fraud.
• Lack of personal interaction and customer service.
• Dependence on technology and internet connectivity.
• Potential for misinformation and counterfeit products.

Digital Certificate:

• A digital certificate is an electronic document used to verify the identity of a website or individual in online transactions.

SSL (Secure Sockets Layer):

• SSL is a security protocol that encrypts data transmitted between a web server and a web browser, ensuring secure communication and protecting sensitive information such as credit card details in e-commerce transactions.