Security in the world, where the internet reigns supreme, is not an option anymore. Regardless of whether you manage a personal blog or a large-scale eCommerce store, your site has to be secured. Placing HTTPS is one of the earliest and biggest steps to take in order to accomplish this. However, what really is HTTPS and why is it being a mandatory requirement in every contemporary site?
This article will inform you on the purpose of HTTPS as well as how it enhances security of the site, its implications in regard to optimization of search and what you should do to ensure that it is correctly applied.
HTTPS What Is It?
HTTPS is an acronym HyperText Transfer Protocol Secure. It is the secure protocol of HTTP, which is the protocol on which information is transferred between a web browser and a web server. The big distinction? When a site is secured, HTTPS is enabled and the information transferred between the browser on your machine and the site is secured using an SSL certificate (Secure Sockets Layer).
When browsing to a site that is HTTPS secured, the padlock icon appears at the address bar signifying the connection between the client and the web server is safe. More significantly, the information that is shared between the retailer and the consumer e.g. passwords, credit card numbers and personal schedules is encrypted and is inaccessible to third parties.
HTTP vs HTTPS: What’s the Difference?
| Feature | HTTP | HTTPS |
|---|---|---|
| Security | Not secure (no encryption) | Encrypted via SSL/TLS |
| Data Integrity | Vulnerable to tampering | Ensured through certificates |
| SEO Ranking | No boost | Google ranking boost |
| Trust Level | Low (marked “Not Secure”) | High (padlock in browser) |
In short, HTTPS provides a secure communication channel, which is essential for building user trust and complying with modern web standards.
Why HTTPS Is Non-Negotiable in 2025
1. Website Security and Data Protection
The most important reason to use HTTPS is security. With data encryption, sensitive information such as login credentials, banking details, and private messages are shielded from hackers and eavesdroppers.
Without HTTPS, data is sent in plain text and can be intercepted by anyone monitoring the network—particularly on public Wi-Fi. This poses a huge risk to both website owners and visitors.
2. SSL Certificates Are Now Free and Easy
There was a time when setting up HTTPS required buying expensive SSL certificates. But now, thanks to initiatives like Let’s Encrypt, you can get a free SSL certificate and install it within minutes. Most modern web hosting providers include SSL with their hosting plans or offer one-click SSL installation.
Popular hosts like SiteGround, Bluehost, Hostinger, and Cloudways make it easy for even beginners to activate HTTPS and secure their websites.
3. Boosts Your SEO Ranking
Google has confirmed that HTTPS is a ranking signal. Sites using HTTPS are given a slight boost in search engine rankings, which can make a significant difference in competitive niches.
Search engines want to deliver safe results to users. That’s why secure websites are favored in search algorithms. If you’re serious about SEO, enabling HTTPS is no longer optional—it’s a core ranking factor.
4. Builds Trust with Your Visitors
Modern users are more aware of privacy and data protection. When visitors see a “Not Secure” warning on your site, they are far less likely to stay or complete a transaction. Conversely, the padlock icon gives them confidence that your site is legitimate and safe to use.
This is especially critical for:
-Online stores
-Membership sites
-Login-based portals
-Financial or medical websites
Your conversion rate, bounce rate, and user retention can all be affected by whether your site uses HTTPS or not.
5. Required for Modern Web Features
Many modern browser features require HTTPS to function. These include:
-Progressive Web Apps (PWAs)
-Geolocation APIs
-Service Workers
-Push Notifications
Without HTTPS, these features may be disabled or limited, restricting your website’s functionality and innovation.
6. Better Analytics Accuracy
Using HTTPS can also help you get more accurate analytics data. When users navigate from an HTTPS site to an HTTP site, referral data is often lost in Google Analytics. However, traffic from HTTPS to HTTPS retains full referral information.
If you rely on accurate traffic sources and conversion tracking, HTTPS is essential.
How to Enable HTTPS on Your Website
Ready to make the switch to HTTPS? Here’s how to get started:
Step 1: Get an SSL Certificate
Most hosting providers offer free SSL via Let’s Encrypt. You can also purchase premium SSL certificates for added features like:
-Extended validation (EV)
-Wildcard SSL (for subdomains)
-Multi-domain SSL
Step 2: Install the SSL Certificate
Use your web host’s dashboard or contact support for help installing the certificate.
Step 3: Force HTTPS Redirection
Make sure all traffic is redirected from HTTP to HTTPS. This can usually be done via .htaccess, your hosting control panel, or a plugin (e.g., Really Simple SSL for WordPress).
Step 4: Update Site Links
Ensure all internal and external links use HTTPS. This avoids mixed content warnings and ensures a fully secure browsing experience.
Step 5: Test Your Website
Use tools like SSL Labs to verify your HTTPS setup and browser padlock status.
Conclusion
In 2025 and beyond, HTTPS is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity. It protects user data, boosts your SEO rankings, increases trust, enables modern web features, and is now easier than ever to implement.
Whether you’re starting a new blog or already have an established business website, switching to HTTPS should be your top website security priority. Don’t let an unsecured connection put your site—and your users—at risk.