HTTPS
HTTPS (Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure) is the encrypted version of HTTP, secured using TLS (Transport Layer Security). It ensures that data transmitted between a user's browser and the web server is encrypted and cannot be intercepted or tampered with by third parties. Google confirmed HTTPS as a lightweight ranking signal in 2014, and browsers now actively warn users when visiting non-HTTPS sites.
Implementing HTTPS requires installing an SSL/TLS certificate on the web server. Services like Let's Encrypt offer free certificates, making HTTPS adoption accessible for all sites. A proper HTTPS migration involves redirecting all HTTP URLs to their HTTPS equivalents, updating internal links and canonical tags, and ensuring no mixed content issues exist (loading HTTP resources on HTTPS pages).
Why it matters for SEO
HTTPS is a confirmed Google ranking factor and a fundamental trust signal for users. Sites without HTTPS are labeled "Not Secure" in browsers, increasing bounce rates and reducing conversion rates. HTTPS is also a prerequisite for HTTP/2 in most browsers, enabling significant performance improvements.
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