SSL Certificate

Definition

An SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) Certificate is a standard security technology for establishing an encrypted link between a server and a client, for instance a web server (a website) and a browser, or a mail server and a mail client. It is a small data file that digitally binds a cryptographic key to an organization’s details. When installed on a web server, it activates the padlock and the https protocol, allowing secure connections from a web server to a browser. This ensures that all data transferred between the web server and browsers remain private and integral.

SSL Certificate Relevance For SEO

Since 2014, Google has been considering SSL certificates as a ranking signal. This means, sites with SSL certificates installed generally perform better in search results compared to those without. Search engines prioritize the user’s safety, and an SSL certificate assures the search engine and its users that the website is secure. For websites, using HTTPS also builds users’ trust because it ensures the information they input, such as their credit card info or personal data, is encrypted making it’s transmission safer. This trust can lead to improved click-through rates, another important ranking factor.

SSL Certificate Best Practices for SEO

• Obtain an SSL certificate from a reliable Certificate Authority. An authority trusted by browsers ensures a smooth experience for users and can prevent security warnings from showing up and hurting your SEO and user experience.
• Ensure that all versions of your site (www, non-www, etc.) are covered by your SSL certificate and redirect users to the secure (https) version of your site.
• Use a 2048-bit RSA key or 256-bit ECDSA key to provide the strongest possible encryption.
• Test your pages to ensure the HTTPS is working properly. You can use an HTTPS Checker tool.
• Avoid mixed content, that is, HTTP content on an HTTPS page. This can cause a warning to appear in the user’s browser and diminish trust.