HTTPS
HTTPS stands for Hyper-Text Transfer Protocol Secure. The word 'secure' says it all, HTTPS is the secure version of HTTP. HTTP is the system used to transmit information between Web site and Web browser, and the secure aspect 'secure' is supported by Transport Layer Security (TSL). This helps with protecting personal user information such as credit card numbers, addresses and passwords.
HTTPS for your website
Beyond keeping data safe, HTTPS can help your Web site in three ways:
Visibility in Google
- Google began using HTTPS as a ranking signal in 2014
- Finding secure websites had to become easier so HTTPS websites were boosted more by Google
- This will put your website higher in the SEO rankings, i.e. in search engine results
- This means that of two websites with qualitatively similar content, the HTTPS will rank higher
- Can be the differentiating factor from your competitors
Creating trust
- The most popular web browser, Chrome, marks websites as 'Not Secure' if it does not have an HTTPS link
- Websites with an HTTP link saw an increase in bounce rate due to loss of trust by visitors
- This also decreased sales and conversion on the websites
Protection of site, customers, offerings and profits
- It is more difficult for Internet thieves to steal information from the Web site
- Anyone can view the data if an exchange takes place on a website that is not HTTPS secure
- Login IDs, home addresses, credit card information and other personal data are protected
The importance of HTTPS
Both as a user and as a Web site owner, an HTTPS is very important. Virtually all users shy away when they see that a link is not secure. There is so much data being collected these days that insecure links are more likely to be skipped. Especially if it means certain personal data could fall into the wrong hands.
Most users do not look beyond the first five search results on Google or other search engines. Suppose your website does show up in the results in terms of SEO and it says "Not Secure" in red, this will damage brand trust. Therefore, it is wise to switch to an HTTPS website as soon as possible.
