As of July 1, 2018, all websites will need SSL security or Google will mark your site as “Not Secure”
When Google says jump, we all say how high! Here is what you need to know about SSL certificates and why you should add one this month!
What is an SSL certificate and why does it make a website more secure?
It used to be for only e-commerce websites, SSL certificates were required to make sure the connection between you and the website merchant was secure and encrypted for privacy.
Look at your URL and see if it starts with https:// , if it does, you have a secure website. If your website starts with http:// and there is no “s”, you need to protect the security of your website with an SSL certificate.
Google Chrome will now start flagging sites that do not have this feature or technology. SSL is a technology that will create an encrypted link between a web server and a browser. This link ensures the data being shared between the web server and the browser remains private.
- Why is GOOGLE pushing us toward SSL Certificates?
Google is releasing Chrome 62 which is the newest version of their most popular browser. It will indicate if a website is not secure if it contains a form and does not have SSL security attached to it. Chrome has almost 50% browser market share so many websites will start to be affected immediately.
Users are already used to seeing a “Not Secure” warning on sites collecting sensitive information and it is very likely that once the warning occurs, your customers will leave your website. Studies show 85% of people browsing a website will leave if a “Not Secure” warning appears.
- Does SSL affect SEO Rankings?
Yes – Google will penalize your website for not being secure. An SSL certifiate is now part of Google’s search ranking algorithm. If you do not have a secure website, Google will put all of the “Secure” websites ahead of your website in search ranking.
- How Can I Get an SSL Certificate?
The first step is to find out what kind of SSL Certificates are available. Determining how many websites and domains your SSL certificate will need to support is the first step.
There are three basic types of SSL Certificates:
- DOMAIN VALIDATION – Basic websites need basic care. This certificate will verify the domain.
- ORGANIZATION VALIDATION – This type of SSL will verify the domain name and the company, the cost is slightly higher.
- EXTENDED VALIDATION – This version of the SSL requires company documentation as is typically used for e-commerce websites. This is the most expensive SSL available.
You can purchase an SSL certificate from many sources and the price will vary based on what your needs are.
After you purchase the right SSL certificate you will need to install it with your hosting company to make sure your website is running smoothly. We strongly recommend that you have someone knowledgeable about DNS and technical set up of your website complete the task for you.
FUN FACT: The fee you pay for an SSL Certificate is yearly and must be renewed on an annual basis.
WordPress Plug-Ins are available to help install your SSL Certificate. They range in cost, function and price and can assist web developers with the process.
NEXT STEPS – CONTACT US!
For more information about purchasing an SSL certificate and making sure your website is secure, contact John Rod and Co. by calling 732.462.2748 ,or for a quick evaluation and quote email john@johnrodandco.com
