What is SSL?

SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) is an encryption protocol that was developed to make data transfers on the internet secure. It was originally created by Netscape and is known today as TLS (Transport Layer Security). SSL/TLS encryption makes sure that all data exchanged between a visitor and a website is protected and cannot be read or manipulated by third parties.

SSL explained: the SSL/TLS encryption protocol protects data transfers between browser and website

You recognize a website encrypted with SSL/TLS by the “https” protocol in front of the URL and by the padlock symbol in the browser. To switch SSL/TLS encryption on, a website needs a valid SSL certificate. That certificate is issued by a trusted certificate authority and proves that the website is trustworthy and secure.

Does my website need SSL encryption?

SSL/TLS is particularly important for websites that transfer personal or financial information, such as online banking, e-commerce sites and social networks. Without secure SSL/TLS encryption, anyone with access to the data can read it and use it.

SSL/TLS encryption therefore guarantees a secure transfer of data on the internet and protects the privacy and the security of your visitors. Every website that collects sensitive user data should implement SSL/TLS encryption to protect both those users and their data.

Does SSL encryption matter for SEO?

Yes, SSL/TLS encryption also plays a role in search engine optimization (SEO). Search engines rate websites encrypted with SSL/TLS higher than unencrypted ones. Secure encryption is read as an indicator of a user-friendly and trustworthy website. On top of that, Google may rate websites without SSL/TLS encryption negatively and let them slip down in the search results.

Implementing SSL/TLS encryption can therefore be an important factor in the SEO strategy of a website. It is worth keeping in mind, though, that secure encryption is only one part of a complete SEO strategy and not the only measure that improves a position in search. Where your site stands on encryption, redirects and the rest of the technical groundwork is what an SEO audit puts on the table.