SEO 101 – Understanding SSL

August 7, 2024
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blog, Google Search Console, on-page seo, search engine optimization, SEO, SEO 101, ssl certificate, technical search engine optimization, Technical SEO, website security
Strottner Designs

a digital image introducing the article on SSL

In person and online, it’s important to take steps to protect the things that are important to you. We lock our cars, our house, and there is no end to the steps we take to secure our personal identities from nefarious actors. The same protections are critical for small businesses, and ensuring your website is secure is not just a matter of protecting data but also a critical factor for search engine optimization (SEO). One of the key elements of web security is SSL. But what does it mean for a website to be “SSL enabled,” and why is it so important for SEO? This edition of SEO 101 will delve into the details, providing a comprehensive guide for business owners and website administrators.

Editor’s Note: This post is part of our SEO 101 series. Click below for the previous entries:

What is SSL?

Definition and Functionality

SSL stands for Secure Sockets Layer. It is a standard security technology for establishing an encrypted link between a server and a client—typically a web server (website) and a browser, or a mail server and a mail client (e.g., Outlook). This link ensures that all data passed between the web server and browsers remain private and integral.

How SSL Works

  • Encryption: SSL encrypts data that is transferred over the web, ensuring that it cannot be read by unauthorized parties.
  • Authentication: SSL provides authentication, ensuring that the website the user is communicating with is indeed the intended website and not an imposter.
  • Data Integrity: SSL ensures that data transferred between users and websites is not modified or corrupted during transfer.

When a website is SSL enabled, it uses the HTTPS protocol instead of HTTP, where the “S” stands for “secure.”

Importance of SSL for SEO

Google’s Preference for Secure Websites

Since 2014, Google has been advocating for a safer web, and part of this initiative involves encouraging websites to adopt HTTPS. Google has confirmed that SSL is a ranking signal in its search algorithm. Here’s why:

  • Trust and Credibility: SSL certificates boost user trust and confidence. When visitors see the padlock icon or HTTPS in the URL, they know the website is secure.
  • Rankings Boost: Websites with SSL certificates often receive a minor ranking boost compared to non-secure sites.
  • User Experience: Browsers like Chrome flag websites without SSL as “Not Secure,” potentially deterring visitors. A secure site ensures a better user experience.

Impact on Traffic and Conversionsa woman looking happy that a website is ssl enabled

  • Higher Rankings Lead to More Traffic: SSL can help improve your search engine rankings, leading to increased organic traffic.
  • Improved Conversion Rates: Users are more likely to complete transactions on a secure site, leading to better conversion rates.

Protection Against Cyber Threats

SSL protects your website from various cyber threats, including:

  • Man-in-the-Middle Attacks: Prevents hackers from intercepting data transferred between users and websites.
  • Phishing: Helps users verify that they are on the correct site and not a fraudulent one.

 

Steps to Enable SSL on Your Website

Choose the Right Certificate

Different types of SSL certificates cater to different needs:

  • Single Domain: Secures one domain.
  • Wildcard: Secures one domain and all its subdomains.
  • Multi-Domain: Secures multiple domains.

Install the SSL Certificate

  1. Purchase an SSL Certificate: Buy from a trusted Certificate Authority (CA).
  2. Verify and Approve: Follow the CA’s instructions to verify your ownership of the domain.
  3. Install the Certificate: This can usually be done through your web hosting provider’s control panel.
  4. Update Your Website Links: Ensure all internal links and resources use HTTPS.
  5. Redirect HTTP to HTTPS: Set up 301 redirects to ensure visitors and search engines are directed to the HTTPS versions of your pages.

Testing and Maintenance

  • Test Your Configuration: Use online tools to check for any issues with your SSL setup.
  • Regular Renewals: SSL certificates need periodic renewal. Ensure you keep track of renewal dates to maintain security.

Have Strottner Designs Handle all of this For You

 

That’s it. That’s the whole section. With our website design packages and our Concierge packages, we do this for you and you don’t have to worry about it.

Final Thoughts

Enabling SSL on your website is a crucial step for enhancing security, building trust, and improving your SEO performance. As search engines continue to prioritize user safety, having a secure, SSL-enabled website is not just a best practice but a necessary component of your digital strategy. By understanding and implementing SSL, you can protect your site’s data, boost your rankings, and provide a safer, more reliable user experience.

For business owners and website administrators, the message is clear: securing your site with SSL is an investment in your website’s credibility, user trust, and search engine visibility. Don’t wait—make the switch to HTTPS and see the benefits for yourself. If you aren’t sure about your site’s status, of course we can help. Email us at support@strottner.com, or test your site using our free audit tool. It can be found on almost any page of our site, and definitely on the Homepage.

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