SSL: Why you no longer have any reason not to use it

What exactly is SSL? SSL stands for Secure Sockets Layer and provides a secure connection between a web server and the user's browser.

SSL encrypts the data that is exchanged so that it cannot be intercepted or read by third parties. For example, do you have a contact form, login page or webshop on your website? Then SSL is essential. You naturally want to prevent personal or sensitive information, such as passwords or payment details, from being intercepted.

User trust

There are also other benefits to SSL. This instills confidence in your visitors. Imagine that you want to place an order online. You'll see a padlock next to the website URL, which means your payment details are being sent securely. This immediately gives you a feeling of peace. Compare this to a website that says 'Not Secure' — you'd probably leave immediately.

A website without SSL can deter potential customers simply because it looks unsafe. With an SSL certificate you immediately show that you take security seriously.

SSL and SEO: What's the Connection?

SSL also offers benefits for your SEO (Search Engine Optimization). This is a series of techniques that you use to improve the visibility and ranking of your website in search engines such as Google. Since 2014, Google has given preference to websites with an SSL certificate. This means that a secure website can rank higher in search results than a comparable site without SSL. This allows potential customers to find you faster, which increases your online visibility.

What else does SSL do?

SSL not only provides protection against data leaks, but also helps in the fight against phishing websites. An SSL certificate validates the identity of a website, so users can be sure they are on the right site and not a rogue copy. This is an important step in protecting your visitors against online scams.

In addition, the GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) requires companies to take measures to protect their customers' data. An SSL certificate is an essential measure to comply with these regulations.

How do you recognize a website without SSL?

You recognize a website without SSL because the URL starts with http instead of https. The 's' stands for secure. You can often see it because there is no lock in front of the web address or because 'Not Secure' is displayed. These are clear signals to users that the website is not secure.

The different types of SSL certificates

There are different types of SSL certificates, each with their own level of security:

• DV (Domain Validated Certificates): This is the root certificate, often used by smaller websites that do not handle sensitive information.
• OV (Organization Validated Certificates): These certificates add an extra layer of verification and are suitable for companies. They also check the organization behind the website.
• EV (Extended Validated Certificates): This is the most extensive certificate, often used by banks and large companies. It gives a green lock and shows the company name in the address bar, which further builds trust among users.

SSL is not expensive

A common misconception about SSL is that it is expensive. However, this is not the case. It is often even included with your domain registration or hosting package. If this is not the case, an SSL certificate can be added for a small fee, or even for free. This makes it even stranger that there are still websites that don't have SSL.

Blocking unsafe websites

The lack of an SSL certificate can prevent certain visitors from viewing your website at all. Browsers like Google Chrome and Firefox actively block unsafe websites, especially when users have optimized their settings for extra security. Antivirus programs and firewalls can also block HTTP sites completely. This means you could be missing out on important visitors just because your website doesn't meet modern security standards.

Conclusion

In short, without an SSL certificate you will not only miss out on visitors, but you will also undermine the trust of your customers and your position in search engines. Arrange an SSL certificate today, because without it your website simply won't be ready for the future!