If your website URL starts with "http://" instead of "https://", you're putting your business and customers at risk. Here's what you need to know about SSL certificates and website encryption.
What Is an SSL Certificate?
SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) certificates encrypt the connection between your website and your visitors' browsers. When properly configured, your site uses HTTPS, which means:
- Data transmitted is encrypted and can't be intercepted
- Visitors can verify your site is legitimate
- Browsers display a padlock icon indicating security
Why HTTPS Matters
1. Customer Trust
Modern browsers prominently warn users when a site isn't secure. Chrome displays "Not Secure" in the address bar, which can drive away potential customers.
2. SEO Rankings
Google uses HTTPS as a ranking signal. Sites without SSL certificates may rank lower in search results.
3. Data Protection
Any data your customers enter—contact forms, login credentials, payment information—can be intercepted on non-HTTPS sites.
4. Compliance
Many regulations (PCI-DSS for payment processing, HIPAA for healthcare, etc.) require encrypted connections.
Types of SSL Certificates
Domain Validation (DV): Basic encryption, verifies domain ownership. Suitable for blogs and small sites.
Organization Validation (OV): Verifies domain ownership and some business information. Good for business sites.
Extended Validation (EV): Rigorous verification process. Shows organization name in some browsers. Best for e-commerce and financial sites.
Common SSL Problems
Mixed Content
Your site loads some resources (images, scripts) over HTTP instead of HTTPS. This can cause browser warnings and security vulnerabilities.
Expired Certificates
SSL certificates expire, typically after 1-2 years. Expired certificates trigger browser warnings that will scare away visitors.
Configuration Errors
Misconfigured SSL can create vulnerabilities even when a certificate is installed.
Getting SSL Right
- Get a certificate from a reputable authority—Let's Encrypt offers free certificates, while paid options provide additional validation and warranty.
- Ensure proper installation—The certificate must be correctly configured on your server.
- Enable HTTPS everywhere—Redirect all HTTP traffic to HTTPS.
- Fix mixed content—Update all internal links and resources to use HTTPS.
- Set up auto-renewal—Never let your certificate expire.
- Monitor continuously—Regular checks ensure your SSL configuration stays secure.
The Bottom Line
HTTPS isn't optional anymore—it's a basic requirement for any business website. If you're not sure about your site's SSL status, we can help assess and configure it properly.
*Our website protection service includes SSL certificate management, ensuring your site is always properly encrypted and certificates never expire unexpectedly.*