By Jim Yu Aug 4, 2015
Last summer, Google announced that HTTPS was to be a light ranking signal, sparking a major debate, as people have sought to determine the importance of this signal and its impact on SERPs. Although it is generally agreed that making the switch is rarely a bad decision, many site owners are deterred by the potential price and resources required to make the transition, and want to know if is really worth their effort. To be able to make the right decision, it is necessary for every site owner to examine what HTTPS means, and how it influences websites and their ranking.
Understanding HTTP vs. HTTPS
HTTP is the standard form used when accessing websites; it is the first part of a web address. HTTPS adds an additional layer of security by encrypting in SSL and sharing a key with the destination server that is difficult to hack. When a site is fully secured, many web browsers will adopt a green bar - and often, a little padlock - to let users know that the information they send through the site has been secured. Converting to HTTPS requires a site to purchase an SSL certificate from a hosting provider to handle the secret information needed to encrypt and decrypt the messages exchanged. SSL certificates cost between $59 and $1999 per year, depending on encryption strength, browser interaction features, and liability coverage if hacked.
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