16 May Web Design and HTTPS: The Google Requirement is Here

Web Design and HTTPS: The Google Requirement is Here

As the ruling entity of the search-engine world, Google is constantly updating and refining their techniques as more websites hit the Internet. In essence, Google wants to weed out the poorly constructed or managed websites while lifting up promising companies, blogs and other sites. One change that’s been implemented in 2017 is the HTTPS requirement. Explore web design and HTTPS as you familiarize yourself with the new, Google requirement.

The Difference Between HTTP and HTTPS

When you look at your web design style, you’re normally interested in the colors, font and page layouts. In fact, your attention doesn’t usually drift to the URL in the browser. Google does. They pay close attention to your URL and the website security.

HTTP or hypertext transfer protocol is simply coding for your website that drives visitors to your pages. This protocol used to be standard as you surfed the Web. Currently, Google wants every page to have HTTPS coverage. The addition of the “S” indicates website security. This designation was normally applied to your Internet session when you logged into a particular site, such as during a banking inquiry or online purchase. Reading a blog in today’s Internet landscape also requires the HTTPS designation and not the HTTP of the past.

Impacting Your Rankings

If you aren’t part of the digital marketing world, this subtle change may not seem like an important detail. However, your website visitors will notice a huge change. As they surf the Web, they’ll access your website. An immediate message pops up in your browser that tells visitors that the site may not be secure. As a result, your potential traffic may leave the URL to look for an alternative website that doesn’t notify them of a questionable situation.

Your website starts falling in the Google rankings because most people won’t venture further than the warning page. Any digital marketing that was working for your San Antonio business can ultimately fail at this point. It’s time to convert your website.

Converting Your Website

Your first reaction to this Google requirement? Put in a call to your website design firm. This protocol change may seem concerning, but it merely requires some conversions and certifications. In fact, website managers simply need to apply for SSL certification. This basic process costs a small fee so that every visitor to the site encounters a secure experience. Your URL remains the same except for the subtle change from HTTP to HTTPS.

The SSL certificate encrypts your website information so that it cannot be used for hacking purposes. Although the conversion may appear to be a frustrating hurdle, it’s actually a helpful progression for your site. If anyone tries to access your computer files, they’ll be forced to translate your encryption.

Incorporating Web Design for Security Compliance

The majority of digital marketing companies can design and/or update your website for HTTPS compliance. These two services are intertwined today as security and marketing become one entity. In reality, your site visitors won’t notice any difference in security types. You might take advantage of the conversion service by asking for a small update to the site’s design itself. Altering the site only helps the traffic moving toward it.

With Google constantly changing their protocols, it makes sense to align your business with a reputable, web design company. Keep up with quarterly and yearly changes so that your website isn’t penalized making it unable to be found in organic search. From San Antonio to New York City, any interested party can view your products and services without worrying about website protection from hackers.

For more information about incorporating secure socket layer (SSL) to your website, contact us at https://www.seosanantonioinc.com or call at (210) 477-4004.