Before we dive into this post let’s answer one simple question. Do you need an SSL for your website?
Yes!
In the past, an SSL was only essential for websites gathering payment or other personal information, specifically e-commerce websites. Today, SSL is necessary for any website for a multitude of reasons.
What is an SSL Certificate?
SSL stands for Secure Sockets Layer. An SSL is a security technology. It’s a protocol for servers and web browsers that makes sure that data passed between the two is private. This is done using an encrypted link that connects the server and browser.
SSL Can be added to your website easily but does not happen automatically. You can tell if a website is protected by SSL by looking at the web address. If a web address starts with “https” that means it’s protected by SSL. If it starts with “http” with no “s” it is not secure.
At Torrch we add SSL to all websites we develop and host on our servers.
It’s obvious SSL is necessary for security, but let’s take a look at a few other benefits of adding an SSL to your website.
SSL protects sensitive information
Information is constantly being passed from computer to computer through the internet. If the information is not encrypted then any computer in between can access that information. This puts information on your site like credit card numbers, usernames, passwords, and contact information at risk.
An SSL encrypts this information, meaning no one else can access or read this information as it travels to the desired destination server.
SSL Increases Website Legitimacy
As a consumer, you should always be on the lookout for websites with SSL. If you don’t see an “s” at the beginning of the web address, it’s best not to give that company or website your personal information as it is likely not protected.
With an SSL website, visitors will feel safe about giving you their information or making purchases from your website.
Increased Search Engine Optimization
When it comes to search engine optimization (SEO) Google will favor websites with SSL. If you don’t have SSL it could make it much harder for people to find your website through an organic search.
Following PCI Requirements
If you’re utilizing your website to accept payments of any kind your website must comply with PCI. Having an SSL certificate installed on your website is one of the 12 primary requirements set by the payment card industry for PCI compliance.
Secure Websites for Small Business
We know when it comes to launching your small business website there are a lot of requirements for you to keep up with. At Torrch, we hope to make the process of creating your website a little easier with our website design and development services. Our website packages include SSL to ensure your website is secure from the start.
Whether you are launching a new website or want a website refresh we create beautifully designed and secure websites. Contact us today.