HTTPS/SSL Certificate

Why It Matters

HTTPS is a ranking factor and critical trust signal. Browsers mark HTTP sites as 'Not Secure', scaring visitors away. Studies show HTTPS sites see 5-10% higher conversion rates due to increased trust. It's mandatory for e-commerce and forms collecting sensitive data.

How It Works

SSL certificates encrypt data transmission, preventing interception. The padlock icon in browsers indicates secure connection. Google explicitly confirmed HTTPS as a ranking factor, and Chrome displays warnings for HTTP sites, particularly those collecting passwords or payment information.

Use Cases

• An e-commerce site migrates to HTTPS, conversion rate increases 8% due to improved trust and 'Secure' badge in browser
• A blog switches to HTTPS and sees 3% ranking boost within 2 months as Google rewards security
• A lead generation site implements HTTPS, form abandonment decreases 15% as visitors trust sharing information

Best Practices

• Install SSL certificate from trusted provider (Let's Encrypt offers free certificates)
• Implement 301 redirects from all HTTP URLs to HTTPS versions to preserve rankings
• Update internal links to use HTTPS to avoid mixed content warnings
• Submit new HTTPS sitemap to Google Search Console and set preferred domain
• Verify HTTPS implementation with SSL testing tools to catch configuration errors
• Use HSTS (HTTP Strict Transport Security) header for additional security