Google now boosts sites with SSL certificates

Want to rank well in Google? Website SSL's are the new web standard.  

Simply put, every website needs encryption (or in our industry jargon, an SSL certificate) if it wants to rank well in Google. Internet-wide encryption is happening now and will soon be a web standard.

So what’s an SSL? What does it actually do?

Basically, an SSL certificate is technology that encrypts a link between the web server where your website lives, and a browser, such as Internet Explorer, Chrome or Firefox.

This link makes sure that all data which goes between the home of your website and the browsers remains private and secure. In short, it helps create a safer internet. You likely see SSL's all the time and look for the trusted HTTPS:// lock icon in your address bar when you're buying something online.

This new standard is being supported and driven by the big players in the web industry and their message is super clear, every website needs a basic SSL certificate, at a minimum.

There was a time when security certificates were thought to only be necessary for online stores and other sites that ask for sensitive or private information – but that’s no longer the case.

The 100% online encryption standard is in full swing and is quickly becoming the norm.

4 key reasons why you should get an SSL on your website.

1. Google gives a boost in rankings to sites with SSL certificates. No SSL, no boost.  

2. Browsers are starting to warn people about websites without SSL's. If you don't have an SSL you may end up with an ugly red X or ‘not secure’ text next to your site in the browser, or worse; your site could potentially be blocked by the browser depending on your security settings.  Google Chrome has started this already and will mark HTTP pages with forms as ‘not secure’.
   

   

3. Browsers will soon only be supporting encrypted sites. Chrome, for example, is only making powerful features available via HTTPS, one of these features being Geolocation.

4. People will trust your business more, which will help with website conversions. Browsers give visual cues, rewarding sites with SSL certificates with a lock icon or green bar, to help visitors know when their connection is secure.
   

   

Not all SSL’s are the same.

For this reason, it's important your SSL supplier understands the differences in SSL's and supplies a range of high-quality SSL brands so that you can get the best solution for your exact online needs.

At the end of the day, no matter what type of business you run, or what sort of website you have, there’s no question about if you need an SSL certificate anymore.

If you would like a hand working out what's best for your website, give us a call 1300 79 55 41, or flick us an email at hello@itagmedia.com.

Here's to your success online!