HTTPS vs. HTTP: Why Secure Websites Rank Better
In this article, we will discuss why HTTPS is important for SEO rankings, security, and website credibility while also guiding you on how to migrate from HTTP to HTTPS.

Introduction
With the advent of the digital world, a website security is more important than ever. Cyber threats and data breaches, hacking attempts are at an all-time high, so online security is now a top priority for businesses and users alike, and how it addresses one of the most basic aspects of website security, the protocol used to transfer data between the browser and the server: HTTP or HTTPS.
HTTP and HTTPS are the basis of web communication. However, HTTPS adds another layer of security in exchange for encrypting data with SSL/TLS encryption. Search engines such as Google consider giving preference to websites with HTTPS enabled because it caters to the requirement of better security, better user trust, and an overall improved experience.
What is HTTP and HTTPs?
Basic to this protocol is HyperText Transfer Protocol, used for transferring data between a web browser and a website. However, HTTP lacks encryption, and it is vulnerable to cyber threats like data interception, hacking, and man-in-the-middle attacks.
HTTPS is a secured version of HTTP that employs Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) or Transport Layer Security (TLS) encryption. It ensures data transfer between the browser and website remains confidential and secure.
Major Differences Between HTTP and HTTPS
Security: It encrypts the data, making it impossible to access without permission.
SEO Impact: Google prefers HTTPS sites over HTTP sites.
User Trust: Users become more comfortable when accessing websites using HTTPS, which the padlock next to the domain indicates.
Data Integrity: Data cannot be tampered with during the transfer process in HTTPS.
Why HTTPS Matters for SEO Ranking
Google Prefer More Secure Sites
In 2014, Google also declared that using HTTPS is a ranking factor. Doing so, it motivated sites to migrate to HTTPS, and the ranking of the same sites is relatively higher when appearing in search results.
Effect on Website Rank and Visibility
Secure websites are favored by search engines. As a result, the amount of organic traffic will be higher. Bounce rates are also low, which adds indirectly to rankings.
User Experience and Trust
A user is more likely to engage or trust a site that has HTTPS activated. Security warnings encourage a user to leave the website with more bounce rates than engagement.
How HTTPS Improves Security and User Trust
Protection Against Man-in-the-Middle (MITM) Attacks
A man-in-the-middle attack is when an attacker intercepts data between a browser and a website. HTTPS prevents such attacks since it encrypts data transmission.
Benefits of Data Encryption and Authentication
With SSL/TLS encryption, sensitive information like passwords, payment details, and personal data are safe, thereby reducing the chances of data breaches.
How HTTPS Builds Credibility and Reduces Bounce Rates
The presence of the padlock symbol next to websites that use HTTPS provides a guarantee that all data exchanged is secure. This means more engagement, lower bounce rates, and more conversions.
Technical SEO Benefits of HTTPS
Faster Page Load Speed with HTTP/2
HTTPS supports HTTP/2, which loads a website at a much faster rate, enhancing user experience and SEO performance.
Secure Referrer Data for Better Analytics
HTTPS preserves referral data, making it easier for website owners to analyze traffic sources accurately.
Compatibility with Modern Browsers and Mobile Indexing
Search engines and modern web browsers favor secure websites. HTTPS sites must be indexed properly and displayed without warnings.
The Role of HTTPS in Conversion Rates and E-commerce
How HTTPS Helps Build Customer Confidence over Online Transactions
E-commerce websites deal with sensitive payment information. HTTPS encrypts transactions, boosting customer confidence and trust.
Checkout Processes and Impact on Payment Security
Secure payment gateways and encrypted checkout processes ensure seamless transactions and reduced cart abandonment rates.
Case Studies of Businesses That Switched to HTTPS and Saw Improved Sales and Conversions
Many businesses have reported increased conversions and revenue after switching to HTTPS due to enhanced security and user trust.
How to Migrate from HTTP to HTTPS
Steps to Obtain and Install an SSL/TLS Certificate
Purchase an SSL/TLS certificate from a trusted provider.
Add your certificate to the web server
Configure your site to use HTTPS
Updating Inner Links and Redirections
Be certain that all of your inner link references are actually to the version via HTTPS and setup 301 rediret to avoid broken link issues and the SEO implications for such
Validate HTTPS Setup using Google Search Console
After switching, configure the Google Search Console settings to correct indexing and reporting properly
Common Mistakes on Switching Over to HTTPS
Do Not Correctly Setup Your 301 Redirection
Failure to correctly apply redirects results in lost traffic and SEO penalties.
Mixed Content Problems (HTTP Resources on an HTTPS Page)
Ensure that all the resources, such as images, scripts, and stylesheets, use the HTTPS to remove security warnings.
Failed to Remember Upgrading Sitemap and Robots.txt
Update the HTTPS sitemap and submit to search engines in order not to lose visibility.
Bonus Tip: Hardening Documents Simultaneously to Website Hardening
Just like websites require encryption for protection, digital documents also need secure conversion. If you deal with images and PDFs, you can use tools like JPG to High Quality PDF to maintain document integrity while converting images into PDFs securely.
Conclusion
Migration to HTTPS isn't anymore an option; it has become a necessity for better SEO rankings, security, and user trust in the website. Secure websites rank better and provide a smooth browsing experience that can increase user engagement and conversions in marketplaces.
If you haven't switched to HTTPS yet, now is the time to do so. Implementing HTTPS will future-proof your website and establish credibility with both search engines and visitors. Stay ahead in the digital landscape by prioritizing security and performance.
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