HTTPS and SSL

Overview

HTTPS (Hyper Text Transfer Protocol Secure) and SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) are crucial elements of Internet security. They protect and secure data transferred between users' computers and the websites they are visiting. SSL is a protocol that creates a secure connection between a client and the server, over which any amount of data can be sent securely. HTTPS is essentially an HTTP protocol with additional security. This security is provided through SSL. Although SSL is now succeeded by Transport Layer Security (TLS), the term "SSL" is still widely used to refer to this type of security protocol.

SSL

SSL uses a cryptographic system that uses two keys to encrypt data − a public key known to everyone and a private key known only to the recipient. SSL creates a secure connection between the web server and the web browser to ensure data privacy.

HTTPS

HTTPS uses SSL to move data. It uses port 443 by default, so HTTP and HTTPS are separate communications. HTTPS works in conjunction with another protocol, Secure Sockets Layer (SSL), to transport data safely.

Usage Types

E-commerce Websites

Any website that processes financial transactions should use HTTPS to ensure the data transferred between the user and the site is secure. This includes credit card details and other personal information.

Login Pages

HTTPS is also necessary for login pages. Usernames and passwords should always be sent over a secure connection.

Data Collection

If your website collects any data (including contact forms, lead gen forms, etc.), that data should be sent over HTTPS. This ensures the information collected from users is secure.

SEO Benefit

Since 2014, Google has been using HTTPS as a ranking signal. Websites using HTTPS might have a slight ranking advantage over websites that don't.

Implementing HTTPS and SSL

To use HTTPS, an SSL certificate is needed. A certificate is a data file hosted in a website's origin server. SSL certificates make SSL/TLS encryption possible by containing the website's public key and the website's identity, along with related information. Devices attempting to communicate with the origin server will reference this file to obtain the public key and verify the server’s identity. The private key is kept secure and secret on your server.

Conclusion

HTTPS and SSL are critical for securing data transmission over the internet, especially in digital marketing, where sensitive customer data is often handled. The usage of HTTPS can also give a slight SEO advantage. Digital marketing agencies and small business owners should prioritize the implementation of these protocols to ensure the highest level of data security and integrity.