Terms you Need to Know
HTTP (HyperText Transfer Protocol): how we send and receive information on the web. For example, by typing “fall activities in St. Augustine,” in Google’s search box, you are actually sending a command to a server. In return the server fetches the information.
SSL (Secure Sockets Layer): is the technology that allows information to be encrypted between the web server and browser. An SSL Certificate can vary in cost depending on the level of security needed. If you are in need of an SSL Certificate, contact Old City Web Services today
HTTPs (HyperText Transfer Protocol Secure): is a secure way to send and receive information. The information you would normally get through HTTP is encrypted through HTTPs.
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- Example of HTTPs URL (Secure)
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- Example of HTTP URL (Not Secure)
Is Google Serious?
This past January, Google Chrome decided to become that uncool mom – who is so cautious that it is literally crippling. The number one search engine began marking websites that require sensitive information, like credit cards, social security numbers, and passwords, without the HTTPs in the URL as not-secure.
But, this crazy soccer mom, is only getting started. This October, they are taking security to the next level and will mark ANY website you interact with, that does not have HTTPs in the URL, as not-secure. So far they are defining interaction as, anything you enter into a text box, including search boxes. To promote a safer internet they are placing icons at the beginning of URLs.
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- Secure
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- More Info/ Not Secure
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- Dangerous/ Not Secure
Will Google Standards Effect Your Business?
A secure website undoubtedly brings users comfort while they browse your site, but, it is not detrimental to your business plan. If you are requesting sensitive information, OCWS suggests you spend the few extra bucks and become SSL certified – to protect your clients and yourself from liability. The bummer is that adding SSL Certification to your website slows down the streaming of your page, because there is an extra step in place – which encrypts information. The good news is that it is possible to only certify certain pages or forms!
If you are interested in SSL certifying your website, or individual pages, OCWS works with GeoTrust, to provide certifications for our clients. Contact us today!
Rumor has it that Google’s new standard will cause search results to place HTTPs sites above HTTP sites. We have not noticed this as yet. The reliability of information on your website at large, remains to be what will predominantly effect your SEO.
A tip for success:
Create A Newsletter
One simple way to stay in-touch with your customers is to create a newsletter. It can then be sent directly to your audiences’ inbox wherever they are and they will know what’s going with your business. Newsletters are also an awesome way to share current specials and events with your audience.
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Disclaimer: Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of information on Old City Web Services Blog.