Have you noticed that URLs can start with either HTTP or HTTPS? This may only look like a slight difference to you, but our team here at Cyrux Smart Solutions is here to explain its significant difference. To put it simply, HTTPS connects to internet security and is a much safer option overall and in order to have it working properly, one needs an SSL certification. Now let’s jump into the details of what this all means and why it’s relevant.
HTTP
Every URL will begin with “HTTP” which stands for “hypertext transfer protocol”. This protocol allows for web browsers and servers to communicate through the exchange of data. This means that whenever a web page is opened and delivered to one’s browser, it is done through HTTP. However, there is one huge downfall of this process, HTTP is not secure. So what does this mean?
Essentially, if a webpage is not secure, it allows for third-party hackers to steal any information that is submitted on an HTTP page. This can become very scary for people who have entered their personal and financial information such as their credit card or home address. This is where HTTPS comes in.
HTTPS
“HTTPS” stands for “hypertext transfer protocol secure”, with the keyword being secure. When you see a website with the “S” attached to the end of the HTTP, you will know you have entered a secure site. Now you might be wondering why anyone has used an HTTP site then? Well, the answer here is money. An HTTPS site isn’t necessarily expensive, but it does cost more than HTTP.
HTTPS uses third-party vendors to verify a site has a secure connection and is legitimate. This type of secure certificate is known as an “SSL Certificate” which we will examine next.
SSL Certificate
The overall goal of an SSL Certificate is to guarantee that a site is secure and will allow you to input sensitive information. Now you might be thinking “how do I know if this website is secure?”, you can easily check this by looking for the padlock symbol on the site within the browser. The padlock represents secure and protected sites. (Go ahead and check!)
If you are thinking of upgrading to an HTTPS website, there are more steps than simply getting an SSL certificate. To let Google know you have switched to HTTPS, you would need to set up a Google Analytics profile, Google Search Console profile, and more. If you are unsure of all the right steps to take to make this change, hiring a professional is your best bet.
How We Can Help
Our team at Cyrux Smart Solutions specializes in Newmarket web design and in web security. This means that if you are setting up your website with our team, you can rest assured that we have all the bases covered. If you are interested in getting a free consultation, you can give our team a call today at (416) 222-0035. Let’s discuss how our team can make your website functional, aesthetic, and overall the most secure!
