The importance of SSL certificates for more than just security

If you have a website, you've probably heard of SSL certificates. They are often presented as an essential element for the security of your website. While data security is an important aspect, SSL certificates offer many more benefits than just protection from malicious actors. In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at how SSL certificates can also improve your SEO (search engine optimization) and build trust with your customers. We also explain how you can order an SSL certificate or install it yourself with Lets Encrypt.

What is an SSL certificate?

SSL stands for Secure Sockets Layer. This certificate establishes a secure connection between your website's server and the visitor's browser. As a result, data such as passwords, credit card numbers and other sensitive information is transmitted in encrypted form so that third parties cannot intercept it either inside or outside the network used.

If your website has an SSL certificate, the URL will change from http:// to https://, where the "s" stands for "secure". In addition, a small padlock often appears in the address bar of the browser, indicating that the connection is secure. This used to be displayed more clearly in many browsers, but today its role and importance has greatly diminished. Currently, an SSL certificate is only displayed with the following icon in Google Chrome, and HTTPS is considered the default URL. Websites without an SSL certificate therefore often encounter errors when trying to visit a website without SSL.

SSL and SEO: A positive impact

In 2014, Google announced that HTTPS would become a ranking factor in its search algorithm. This means that websites with an SSL certificate will be favored in Google's search results over websites without a certificate.

While it's not the only factor that determines your ranking, an SSL certificate can give you an extra boost to appear higher up in search results. In addition, a secure website provides a better user experience. Visitors feel safer when they see that their data is protected, which can lead to lower bounce rates and longer visit times. Google values user-friendliness, so an SSL certificate can indirectly contribute to a better ranking.

SSL and customer trust: The basis for a good relationship

In addition to improving your SEO, an SSL certificate also plays a crucial role in building customer trust.

At a time when cybercrime is rampant, consumers are increasingly cautious when it comes to sharing their personal data online. A website without an SSL certificate can be classified as "unsafe" by almost all browsers. This deters potential customers and can lead to a loss of sales. An SSL certificate shows that you are serious about the security of your customers, which is essential for building a trustworthy relationship.

Even if you don't have a webshop, just a blog, this insecure labeling will cause you to lose visitors. Customers are also more likely to make purchases or share their details on a website they trust. This trust can lead to repeat visits and positive word-of-mouth, referrals and links from others, which ultimately contributes to the success of your business.

SSL certificates are crucial for success

SSL certificates offer much more than just security, of course. They are a powerful tool for improving your search engine optimization, building customer trust and ultimately growing your business.

If you don't already have an SSL certificate for your website, it's time to take the plunge and invest in the security and success of your online presence. Whether you run a small blog or a large e-commerce site, an SSL certificate is no longer a luxury these days, it's a necessity. Make sure your website doesn't fall by the wayside and take advantage of the many benefits SSL certificates offer. Order your SSL certificate now via the customer panel in the additional options included in your package. Or use the included SSL certificate from Lets Encrypt for your hobby project. Also read our previous blog post about the benefitsof a paid SSL certificate for more information about the differences.