IT professionals recommend securing your business's website with HTTPS instead of basic HTTP. What is this web component, and why is it important for your business? Get answers to these questions and more in this helpful guide.

What Is HTTPS?

If you type any site into a web browser, you'll find one of two prefixes before the website name: HTTP or HTTPS.

HTTP stands for "hypertext transfer protocol."
HTTPS stands for "hypertext transfer protocol secure."

Based on these simple clues, it's clear that HTTPS is a safer version of HTTP, but how?

Both protocols relate to the data exchange between a website and its visitors. The most secure websites encrypt all of their data transfers through two algorithms: Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) and Transport Layer Security (TLS). SSL and TLS certificate authorities protect the website's data in transit to keep user information safe.

Why HTTPS Is Important for Businesses

Every business benefits from establishing a secure website using this HTTPS data transfer protocol because it helps your business garner a better reputation and protects your website visitors.

HTTPS Protects Sensitive Information

Do you sell online goods through an e-commerce website? Your e-commerce business thrives off digital payments and is especially vulnerable to cyberattacks. Using HTTP only grants you a few layers of security and could compromise your customers' personal information.

HTTPS encrypts all your customer's data when they visit and purchase something from your site, protecting them from hackers looking to steal sensitive information.

HTTPS Supports Evolving Web Practices

Browsers never used to point out to users a website's security level. However, in 2016, Google Chrome's rules changed, and it now alerts you when you visit a website that still uses HTTP. You'll see a notification in your browser that the site is not secure.

Several web activities require user permission. Websites with the most updated and secure data transfer protocol can successfully execute permission workflows as technology evolves.

HTTPS Can Improve Your Website's SEO

If you're trying to get your website to appear in Google search rankings through search engine optimization (SEO) practices, consider switching to HTTPS. Sites with enhanced security perform better in search rankings, which helps them draw more visitors. When more customers see your site in the search results, they will probably click and convert to paying customers.

HTTPS Gives You More Credibility

Websites that use HTTPS can give your business more credibility. Think about what it would be like for a customer to visit your site and see a warning from Google that the site is unsafe. Some customers will leave the site and never return, and others may hesitate to put their personal information.

When you run a secure website, it can help your business's image. In the end, this helps you build trust and credibility, which helps you get more customers.