Before we get into the details of whether or not SSL certificates are important for SEO rankings, let’s just get a clear idea about what SSL really means. Basically, SSL stands for Secure Sockets Layer, and this certificate serves as a measure of security for different websites. They are more like small data files that have to be installed into a web server. Once installed, they help in activating a padlock which further helps in securing a connection between a web server and the browser. The whole purpose of an SSL certificate for a website is to make the web a safe haven for all users.
Does SSL certification impact SEO rankings?
You all must be familiar with Google’s highly dynamic algorithms for search engine optimisation. Now Google has made SSL certification a symbol of trustworthiness for websites. This means that all HTTPS websites will experience an SEO boost. These pages further can make it to the search results of the users.
SSL certification is the new normal for websites
A few years ago, the responsive design of the website was considered to be the standard. And now, the same is true for SSL certification. Therefore, all the new websites are now required to be launched with the SSL certification. The importance of an SSL certificate for a website lies in the fact that it adds a sense of security to the website. The visitors, therefore, feel safe while browsing those websites. SSL certification clearly sends out the message that they are safe from all sorts of unethical behaviour of hackers.
What is the importance of an SSL certificate for SEO?
Now that you have understood why SSL is significant for websites, we will discuss how they impact search engine optimisation.
For Google, security is indeed a big deal. It is the biggest factor that determines whether or not a website is safe to visit. As per the Google algorithm, all the HTTPS websites will get ranked high in the search engine results and those websites which do not have SSL certification will not be able to rank high in SERPs.
Google wants all the web users to land on pages that are safe and secure. In case visitors reach a website, which is not secure, it impacts the image of Google. So, the search engine has decided to give a push to all the SSL certified websites.
Google now looks for all the websites which start with HTTPS. For laymen, HTTPS should be a parameter for safety. It means if a website does not start with HTTPS, Google won’t encourage you to proceed with it.
Google is openly shaming all the unencrypted websites. By taking this major step, Google is making people aware of web security. General users now hesitate when they see unencrypted websites.
A website is under the constant vigilance of Google. When users quit your website because there is no SSL certification, Google takes note of the same. When this happens multiple times, your website will be demoted by Google, and you won’t be able to reach out to your target audience.
How to install an SSL certificate?
- First of all, you have to buy a relevant SSL certificate from an SSL certificate provider. You will get three major options in terms of SSL certificates. These are – organisation validation (OV), extended validation (EV) and domain validation (DV).
- Next, you will need to crawl your website and update each and every link. Also, you are required to set up the 301 redirects.
- Next, you will have to update the HTTPS version of the website onto your Webmaster tools, robots.txt, CDN and Google Analytics.
- After that, performing a swift test is extremely important. The results will give you a fair idea that everything is working just right.
Advantages of SSL certificate for website
- SSL certification significantly helps in enhancing customer trust. Most of the internet users today are knowledgeable enough and are concerned about their safety online. They will always look for HTTPS before they proceed to use a particular website. In case your website is not encrypted, you will not be able to gain the trust of such aware and knowledgeable users.
- SSL certificates help in improving the search engine optimisation of your website. You will be able to reach out to your target audience because Google will boost your encrypted website.
- SSL certificate for website proves to be handy in case of DSS and PCI requirements. So, in case you are running an e-commerce website, this will prove to be beneficial during the collection of online payments.
- SSL certificates are known for their ability to protect your website data. They help in the creation of an improved server-client communication opportunity. This ensures that each and every piece of information is highly encrypted. The data thus is secure and inaccessible to any attacker.
- SSL certification makes your company authentic and genuine. It is proof that you run a legitimate business and that there is nothing illegal about it.
Takeaway
Every business is now getting digitised. If you wish to survive the cut-throat competition, it is necessary that you get an SSL certificate for your website from a trusted SSL certificate provider. Upgrading your website with SSL certification need not to be a hectic and overwhelming process.
You can seek the help of NTSPL experts if you are unsure about which type to choose for your website. The team behind NTSPL Hosting is well equipped and backed by years of experience in the SSL industry in order to best satisfy the growing demand for SSL certificates throughout the world at the lowest possible price, and all for highly trustworthy, well-maintained 256-bit SSL Certificates.
