sThis is one of those questions that most people don't actually understand let alone know how to answer so I'm going to try to explain this in as simple a way as possible.
Let me start by explaining some of the terms that we are going to talk about. Don't run away, it'll get easier!
What does SSL stand for?
SSL stands for Secure Socket Layer.
What does HTTPS stand for?
HTTPS (Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure) is how your domain name starts if you have an SSL certificate enabled on your web hosting and your website has been set to work correctly with it. If you look at the domain name in the address bar here. You'll see a nice green padlock saying that we are a secure website. https://www.navitasdesign.co.uk
What does HTTPS mean?
If HTTPS is in use and showing the green padlock it means that the website has had a valid security certificate enabled and that the user can be reassured that website owner has taken steps to ensure that data that they input is more safe and secure.
What does SSL mean to me?
If you just use http in your domain name you may not realise that an attacker may be able to intercept the information that's input from your users web browser into what they THINK is your website, it may be taking the domain to another website that isn't yours. By using HTTPS you are showing your user that you are doing whatever you can to reduce the risk to THEM. The SSL certificate only shows securely if the website visitor is on your website on your server.
Google also gives you a small SEO boost for presenting your website to your users in a more controlled and secure way. Google cares about the users of the internet so rewards you for making it a more secure place to browse.
Do I need to get an SSL certificate?
Yes! In short your should add secure certificate and use SSL to:
- Boost your SEO
- Make your users information more secure
Many years ago a site with HTTPS ran slightly slower but as technology has progressed that is no longer an issue.
How do I get an SSL certificate and how much does it cost?
If you have a website hosted with Navitas Design please contact us and we can discuss your best option, some SSL certificates are free and some will have a small annual cost. In most cases we will need to do some configuration on your websites which starts at £75.00 + VAT. This will ensure all of your links are changed to HTTPS and that green padlock works just as it should.
If you need some advice on changing your site to HTTPS please get in touch with us at support @ navitasdesign.co.uk and we can arrange a call or get the process started.
We don't want to baffle you with techy speak but if that is your thing here is one of the engineers from Google explaining SSL how it is! I know I like to know more about how things work...