HTTP is the basic communication protocol of the web, but it’s not secure — data is transmitted in plain text and can be intercepted. HTTPS adds a security layer through SSL/TLS encryption, protecting sensitive information like passwords and payment details. Beyond security, HTTPS is a ranking factor for Google and increases user trust. Every serious website should use HTTPS.
What is HTTP and what is it used for?
HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol) is the communication protocol used to transfer data between browsers and servers. It allows websites to load pages, images, text, and videos. However, HTTP doesn’t encrypt data — meaning that anything transmitted can be intercepted by third parties.
While it’s acceptable for browsing public content, HTTP is not suitable for sites that collect personal information or use login forms.
What is HTTPS and how does it protect your website?
HTTPS (Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure) is the secure version of HTTP. It uses SSL/TLS encryption to protect data transmitted between the browser and the server. This extra layer of security prevents hackers from intercepting, altering, or stealing information during transmission.
Sites using HTTPS display a padlock in the address bar and appear more trustworthy — it’s essential for handling sensitive user data, such as:
- Contact and login forms
- Online payments
- User registrations and personal data
Trusted sources for learning about HTTPS:
- Mozilla – What is HTTPS?
- Google Security Blog
Why is HTTPS important for SEO?
Since 2014, Google has considered HTTPS a ranking signal. This means secure websites can gain a slight edge in search results. Additionally:
- Browsers like Chrome and Firefox flag HTTP sites as “Not secure,” which discourages visitors.
- HTTPS improves trust metrics, user retention, and conversions.
- HTTPS sites tend to load faster when paired with HTTP/2.
According to Search Engine Journal, the majority of websites ranking on Google’s first page already use HTTPS.
How do you migrate your site from HTTP to HTTPS?
- Get an SSL/TLS certificate
You can obtain one for free (e.g., Let’s Encrypt) or purchase one depending on your site’s needs. - Install the certificate on your hosting server
The process varies depending on your hosting provider. - Set up 301 redirects from HTTP to HTTPS
This tells search engines that your URLs have permanently moved to the secure version. - Update all internal links
Point all links to the HTTPS version to avoid redirect chains and ensure consistency. - Fix mixed content issues
Ensure all resources — like images, scripts, and fonts — are also loaded over HTTPS. - Verify your new HTTPS site in Google Search Console
This allows you to monitor performance and indexing on the secure version.
What is an SSL certificate and how does it work?
SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) is an encryption protocol that protects the integrity and privacy of data. TLS (Transport Layer Security) is its modern version and the current standard.
When visiting a site using HTTPS, the browser checks whether the certificate is valid and issued by a trusted certificate authority (CA). If it is, the browser establishes a secure, encrypted connection.
Learn more from authoritative sources:
Does HTTPS make your site 100% secure?
No. HTTPS encrypts data in transit, but it doesn’t protect against other threats like:
- Cross-site scripting (XSS), SQL injections
- Outdated CMS/plugins
- Weak passwords or lack of 2FA
In short, HTTPS is essential, but not enough on its own.
Should I use HTTPS even if I don’t sell anything on my site?
Yes — and you should. Even informational websites and blogs benefit from HTTPS:
- Increased user trust
- Better search engine visibility
- No “Not Secure” warnings in browsers
- Protects user sessions and interactions
In fact, browsers like Chrome already flag any HTTP site as insecure, regardless of its content.
How can I keep my HTTPS certificate working properly?
- Renew the SSL before it expires
Free certificates (like Let’s Encrypt) last 90 days and should auto-renew. - Avoid mixed content
Always load all resources (scripts, images, fonts) over HTTPS. - Reissue the certificate if you change domains or hosting
Certificates are domain-specific and must be updated accordingly.
Helpful tools:
Why should you switch to HTTPS right now?
HTTPS is the modern web standard. It protects user data, improves website performance, builds trust, and contributes to higher Google rankings. Keeping your site on HTTP risks your SEO, credibility, and security.
If you haven’t migrated yet, now is the time. And if you already have, ensure your SSL certificate is always up to date, and that your site loads securely at every level.
