You’ve probably heard by now, that recent changes to the Google Algorithm now value sites with SSL encryption more than sites without it.
Let’s look at what an SSL certificate is and the two main reasons every website should have one, and it’s even more important than search engine optimization.
What is an SSL Certificate?
Don’t worry, I’ll spare you all the technical jargon that is more confusing then helpful!
Basically, when you install an SSL certificate on your web server, it allows secure connections from that web server to a browser.
It use to be that you would only see this when you visited a commerce sites like Amazon.com. The url would change from http://amazon.com to https://amazon.com.
Again, with an SSL you’re creating a secure connection so that the information, email address, credit card details, whatever you type into a website through the browser is encrypted and secured. Protecting your private information from malicious hackers.
Which is why they are most commonly used for sites that have a checkout page, login pages, etc … where personal information is shared and stored.
Here is a screenshot of what this looks like from my site:
Why should you have an SSL Certificate?
So the obvious conclusion is because Google is now favoring websites (adding more value to websites) that have an SSL certification.
As mentioned, Google recently announced that having an SSL Certificate is the easiest thing site owners can do to boost SEO ranking.
Now let’s be clear, this doesn’t mean that if you’re current ranking has you on page 20 for a specific key word, you’ll be moved to page 5 because you added an SSL cert to your site.
When it comes to SEO, adding an SSL cert will add value to what you’re already doing.
The #1 Reason to Add an SSL Cert
As I mentioned, this reason is even more important than SEO rankings.
>> It’s conversion. <<
We have tested this on several different types of websites. We tested it on a blog that only offered a “free membership”, squeeze pages, commerce sites, membership sites, etc …
The results were the same, every time, we saw an increase in conversions.
People are actually looking for the HTTPS to make sure that they are on a secure site before entering their personal information.
Is it Worth it? Should you do it?
If you’re asking me, Yes! Absolutely!
How to setup your SSL Certificate
There is a different procedure for every hosting company and some hosting companies also allow you to purchase an SSL directly from them, which then makes it supper easy to add to your website.
If you’re following my advice, and you’ve read my post of hosting solutions, then you’re using WP Engine, right!? I’m just kidding, but seriously, WP Engine is the best Managed Hosting solution for WordPress.
I’ll give you a quick rundown.
- WP Engine – free and fully integrated into your account!
- Rainmaker – free, just a couple clicks and it’s installed for you!
- ClickFunnels – available free through Cloudflare.com
- Flywheel – not sold directly but will help install 3rd party SSL.
- Godaddy – purchase directly and add to your hosted account.
- Bluehost – not sold directly but will help install 3rd party SSL.
If you have any questions, please use the comments below.