title: What does 40bit - 256 encryption actually mean?
body: <p>I've recently been looking at SSL certificates and have seen a number of vendors selling a low end certificate which encrypts at between 40-256 bits.</p>
  
  <p>However, when I visit a site which has such a certificate it reports that site is using a 256bit encrypted connection.</p>
  
  <p>Since we all know 40bit encryption is now woefully inadequate how can they be offering this as possibility?  </p>
  
  <p>It seems as if they are offering something which will range from being completely unsuitable to suitable - is that the case? </p>