The consumer has the power—they seek information to make the best decisions. That’s why your digital marketing strategy must offer valuable content and a secure website.
Your website is your business card online, where users find the info they need to choose you over competitors. It’s also the best way to connect, offer quotes, and build a database for your CRM. For e-commerce, it helps create user profiles and strengthen relationships with personalized content.
For secure and trustworthy information exchange, your site must meet all security requirements, especially an SSL certificate, which is now essential.
Google recommends SSL and HTTPS everywhere. Sites without SSL are marked as not secure, hurting your reputation and search ranking.
The importance of online security and your reputation
Trust is vital online. Sites seen as unreliable or insecure lose traffic. A secure site attracts more visitors, whether you’re a nonprofit, small business, or e-commerce store. Users recognize the padlock icon or “https://” as signs they can trust your site—that’s SSL in action.
How does SSL work?
- A visitor connects to your SSL-protected site. The browser asks the server to identify itself.
- The server sends a copy of its SSL certificate.
- The browser checks if the certificate is trusted. If so, it sends a message to the server.
- The server sends a digitally signed acknowledgment to start an encrypted SSL session.
- All data shared between browser and server is now encrypted.
This is called the “SSL handshake,” creating a secure session that prevents data theft or unauthorized access.
HTTPS and SSL
HTTPS (Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure) appears in the URL when a site is protected by SSL. If not, you’ll see HTTP instead. Hovering over HTTPS shows the site’s security credentials.
Benefits of SSL
- Makes your site look more professional—SSL requires verification by a certificate authority.
- Visitors are more loyal, knowing their data is protected.
- Online shoppers check for SSL before buying.
- Payment systems may have their own SSL, but it’s best for your site to have its own certificate.
- All your information is protected—SSL encrypts everything sent and received, like promo codes or coupons.
With an SSL certificate, you’ll improve visits, conversions, sales, trust, and search ranking. No matter your website type, you can benefit from at least a basic SSL certificate.
If you need an SSL certificate for your website or e-commerce, CUERNOSOFT can help with personalized advice.
