If you are new in SEO and the digital realm, you may have encountered the term “SSL certificate”. So, what is an SSL certificate? And why it is important for websites to have an SSL certificate?
First, let’s discover the meaning of SSL. SSL certificate stands for Secure Sockets Layer. Typically, it is a kind of protocol that secures your website. Thus, whoever visits your website will enjoy data encryption. Consequently, the data will transfer between you and them securely decreasing the chances of data breaches. Who doesn’t want to secure his data online?
However, SSL certificates have other benefits for you as the owner of the website. Here are 4 benefits you will get upon installing an SSL certificate on your website:
Increase website security:
As mentioned before, SSL certificates mean the information across connections is encrypted between both sides of the communication. Such encryption is important in case you own an eCommerce website or you need any kind of registration. Therefore, all personal information including visa/master cards and financial transactions are secured.
Gain your visitors’ trust:
As more online users became aware of data security and breaches, they can differentiate between SSL-certified websites and non-certified ones. Certified websites gain more trust among users. Moreover, it ensures that the website users are browsing now is not a fake one. In other words, they know this is your website, not someone pretending to be you. In technical terms, this is Phishing.
Improve your brand value:
Your online reputation is part of your business. It is not about forming clients and keeping them visiting your website. Nowadays, we regularly hear about cyber-attacks. These online attacks have a great impact on business reputation. Unfortunately, their consequences remain for a long time and it takes ages to rebuild the reputation. However, with an SSL certificate, it is easy to protect your website and business as well.
Boosts SEO Ranking:
All website owners want their websites to rank in organic Google search. Did you ever know that SSL-certified websites have better chances of appearing on the first results page? In 2014, Google announced that its algorithm will consider SSL certifications in the search results. Hence, it is not only about security but also for SEO purposes.
Updates making it more important for websites to have an SSL certificate
In 2018, Google decided to take a step forward regarding SSL certifications. Any website that fails to get this certification will get flagged. This means the users will receive a warning message before they enter telling them the website is not secure. Imagine how this can affect the website’s visits!
Up till now, most famous web browsers follow this rule. In the near future, we can predict that they may even block uncertified websites. So, whatever website or blog you have, it is mandatory to consider SSL. In the end, your online presence is tied to the number of visitors and their experience on your website. So, your goal should always be to provide the best experience and safety measures.
