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HTTP and HTTPS – What Is It?

HTTPS

All web users have noticed how website addresses begin – with either http or https, though not everyone is concerned with what they actually mean, especially since they appear in the browser bar automatically. What about you? Have you ever wondered what http or https means and why are they in web addresses? If you’re looking for answers to these questions, read on!

What Is HTTP?

HTTP is the abbreviation for Hypertext Transfer Protocol, which enables data transfer for the Internet network. It’s responsible for communication between the client (browser) and the server where all the files constituting the website are stored. In practice, it makes it possible to display a requested page to the user.

The http protocol has been used for this purpose since the 1990s. It was developed to send large amounts of data simultaneously to create and display more complex websites. Communication within the http protocol is based on a fairly simple process of sending data between a client and a server. The client sends a request to which the server responds by sending this data to the interested party.

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What are the key traits of the http protocol? First, it does not store previously sent data. This means that they have to be downloaded from the server each time the page is accessed, which delays the whole process, but at the same time avoids overloading the servers. That is why a system of cookies has been implemented, which collect the data and allow faster loading of web pages. Moreover, http does not define how the information is transmitted from the server to the browser, so it creates the risk of intercepting sensitive information.

What Is HTTPS?

HTTPS stands for Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure. The addition of the latter word means that it’s simply the http protocol with added security. In this case, the data sent between the web browser and the server is encrypted with an SSL or TLS certificate. This means that they are protected from falling into the wrong hands. The https protocol protects information about the website owner and its users, preventing them from being intercepted or changed, making it particularly important for personal data, payment data, etc. The https protocol is being used increasingly often and is becoming a standard for all types of websites. This is because security on the web is considered a priority. Thanks to this users can use different types of services that require data without worrying about it leaking into the wrong hands.

HTTPS – Is It Worth It?

Every website owner can switch from the address with the http prefix to the one with https at the beginning. This requires the implementation of an SSL encryption certificate – it costs several dozen PLN a year. In order for the certificate to work properly, you also need to configure your website files and the external tools used, as well as apply appropriate redirections so that you do not lose your position in the search engine. It’s best to commission all these works to an Internet marketing agency, which will take care of a smooth and comprehensive process.

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But is it worth it? Absolutely. The current emphasis on data security is not a temporary trend, but a tendency that will not only continue, but will even deepen with the development of new methods of data protection. This is something that more and more Internet users pay attention to. The number of aware people is growing, so it’s certainly not worth lagging behind. At the same time, changing the protocol to https confirms the credibility of the site and the entire company and positively affects its reputation. Emphasize care about customer security to gain prestige and trust. This is also information for business partners or investors who are much more likely to do business with a company that pays attention to high security standards.

HTTPS vs Google – Does Encryption Affect Positioning?

The world’s largest search engine – Google – is not hiding its concern about the safety of online user data. Algorithms take into account factors such as credibility and quality of the domain, and this is also related to providing users with security. This means that implementing the https protocol can have a positive impact on the positioning of your site. Investmenting here will help you get even more customers. Remember that Google currently warns users trying to access a site that should be using the https protocol (because it collects sensitive data), and it doesn’t!

Of course, just using the https protocol isn’t enough to get your site much higher in the search results, especially since this is now becoming standard and more and more companies are using encryption certificates, though it’s certainly an important factor that will allow you to be more effective in your SEO and credibility-building efforts.

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http vs https – which to opt for?

Viewing the above, the case is clear: switching to the https protocol is a small cost, but many benefits for your site and your business. It allows you to make sure that your website will work properly in every browser and will not be blocked by filters that care about the safety of Internet users. It improves the position in search results and increases the prestige and trust in the brand, which is appreciated by both customers and business partners.

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Author of the article

Dominika, currently Content Marketing Manager, joined Verseo immediately after getting a degree in project management and digital marketing. She is one of those lucky people who are passionate about what they do. Marketing and modern technologies are not only her job, but also her interests. Domi is one of those great people to meet, offering a wealth of imagination, painstaking diligence and spring openness. Extremely competent when it comes to LinkedIn, content building and lectures on healthy diet.