Google has also updated their search engine algorithm to favor HTTPS sites with higher SEO rankings. If a website is not loading securely on HTTPS, you see that unflattering ‘not secure’ warning for the website. This warning will surely deter people from visiting your website.
HTTP vs. HTTPS
HTTP (HyperText Transfer Protocol) and HTTPS (HyperText Transfer Protocol Secure) are both protocols for passing information between web servers and clients (your computer or phone). As the name suggests – HTTPS is a secure connection that encrypts data so it is not able to seen by unauthorized people (hackers). Until just recently – HTTPS was only required if your website collected sensitive personal data such as credit card information. Now, it is more important than ever to have your website run on HTTPS.
Securing Your Website
How exactly do you have your website run on HTTPS? It is fairly simple – purchase a SSL Certificate from your domain registrant or website host. It is also necessary to update your website to use the secure protocol. If not – you will still get the browser warning that ‘some elements of the website are not secure’. Getting rid of the warning is an easy task for an experienced website developer. All of the images, scripts, links, etc. have to also be linked via HTTPS or that warning will not go away – even if you have purchased a SSL Certificate and can access your site on HTTPS.
If you are interested in having your website updated to run on HTTPS, contact me today.
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Theresa Kibler began studying programming in 1999, has a Bachelor of Science degree in Information Technology specializing in Web Application Development and an Associate in Science degree in Computer Programming & Analysis.
