HTTPS
The secure version of HTTP that encrypts data between the browser and server using SSL/TLS.
HTTPS (Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure) is the secure version of HTTP, the protocol used to send data between your browser and a website. The "S" stands for Secure — it means the connection is encrypted using SSL/TLS, so nobody can intercept or tamper with the data in transit.
Google confirmed HTTPS as a ranking signal back in 2014. Chrome also marks non-HTTPS sites as "Not Secure" in the address bar, which can scare visitors away. There's really no reason not to use HTTPS anymore.
To enable HTTPS, you need an SSL certificate installed on your server. Many hosting providers include free SSL certificates (via Let's Encrypt). Cloudflare also offers free SSL. The days of paying hundreds of dollars for a certificate are long gone.
When migrating from HTTP to HTTPS, make sure to 301 redirect all HTTP URLs to their HTTPS equivalents, update internal links, update your sitemap, and update your canonical tags. A botched migration can temporarily hurt your rankings.
Why It Matters for SEO
HTTPS is a confirmed Google ranking factor. Beyond SEO, it protects your users' data, builds trust, and is required for modern browser features. Chrome's "Not Secure" warning on HTTP sites directly impacts user trust and conversion rates.
🔍 How to Check This
AuditMySite checks your SSL certificate and HTTPS implementation as part of every scan.
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