Web Development

What is SSL / HTTPS?

SSL and HTTPS are encryption protocols that secure the connection between a website and its visitors.

Definition

SSL and its successor TLS are encryption protocols that secure the connection between a website and its visitors. When a site has SSL installed, its URL begins with https and displays a padlock icon in the browser. This means data transmitted between the visitor and the server, including form submissions, login credentials, and payment information, is encrypted and protected from interception. Google has used HTTPS as a ranking signal since 2014, and browsers actively warn users when they visit non-HTTPS sites.

Why It Matters for Small Businesses

Any website that does not have SSL installed is displaying a Not Secure warning to visitors in modern browsers, which immediately undermines trust. Beyond trust, HTTPS is a technical SEO requirement, a basic security standard, and in many cases a requirement for payment processing and form functionality.

Example

A therapist website is still running on HTTP rather than HTTPS. When prospective patients visit on Chrome or Safari, they see Not Secure in the address bar before they have read a single word of content. Many leave immediately. After migrating to HTTPS, the trust signal is restored and contact form submissions increase noticeably.

Related Terms

Web HostingMost quality hosting providers include SSL certificates

E-E-A-THTTPS is a baseline Trustworthiness signal

SEOHTTPS is a confirmed Google ranking signal

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