Plays an important role in DNA replication, recombination and repair. Binds to ssDNA and to an array of partner proteins to recruit them to their sites of action during DNA metabolism. Acts as a sliding platform that migrates on DNA via reptation. SSB or its 10 C-terminal amino acids stimulates the ATPase activity of RadD (PubMed:27519413). The C-terminal tail exerts an inhibitory effect on ssDNA binding. Homotetramer. Interacts, via its C-terminus, with several proteins involved in DNA metabolism such as DnaG, HolC, PriA, PriB, RecO, RecQ and SbcB. Interacts with RadD (PubMed:27519413). Phosphorylated on tyrosine residue(s).