We recently updated our website to use SSL (i.e. the green secure padlock) on all pages. It took a bit of work, but is worth it for many reasons I’ll explain below. It is something you should seriously consider for your website as well.

Google likes secure websites

Back in August of 2014, Google let the world know that having web pages that are encrypted by SSL is one of its ranking factors for SEO. Search Metrics followed up in 2015 stating that a small boost was seen for SSL protected web pages.

Soon the Chrome web browser may display a red “x” for any page that is not secure.

The bottom line is using SSL on all of your pages is something Google sees as important, and will likely become the norm in the not so distant future.

All SSL conveys a sense of security

When a visitor first comes to your website and sees the green padlock regardless of what page they click to, it conveys a message that your website is a safe and secure place to be. Right away they are aware of your site’s security, and do not have to wonder about safely browsing your website.

If you opt for an Extended Validation (EV) SSL certificate, your company name also appears in green in the URL bar in the browser:

(click image to enlarge)

It’s a great way to differentiate yourself from other websites, and make a statement up front that you take security seriously.

SSL is not hard to set up

With most websites, it’s usually not too difficult to make your entire website use SSL. Besides needing an SSL certificate, many applications have a setting or two that can be adjusted to use SSL on all pages. For static html pages, a simple find and replace can be done to switch all URLs to be secure.

We have helped many of our hosting clients make the switch to all SSL. We have a process that works seamlessly for ShopSite stores, Magento stores, WordPress websites, and static html websites. If you’re hosted with us, get in touch about wanting to make your entire website secure, and we’ll provide you with more details.

…

Given how important Google sees secure web pages, how making the switch can make your visitors feel safe, and how easy it is to convert to SSL on all pages, it’s a simple and effective way to boost your site’s ranking and improve the experience for visitors browsing your site. Make the switch today!