Small Guide to SSL Certificates on Squarespace
SSL certificates are crucial in maintaining a website's trust with its visitors. We’ve all been to a site with warning messages that are marked as unsafe, usually due to an SSL error. An SSL certificate, or Secure Sockets Layer certificate, is a digital certificate that authenticates a website’s identity and encrypts information sent to the server using SSL technology. This encryption ensures that data transmitted between the user's web browser and the website's server remains private and secure.
Beyond technical reasons, having a secure site is also becoming mandatory to appear highly (or at all) in search engine results. If visitors can’t find your business, they won’t be able to contact you or purchase your goods and services, nor would they want to if your site is unsafe. Without SSL certificates, websites are more susceptible to cyber threats like data breaches and phishing attacks, underscoring the vital significance of these seemingly unremarkable digital safeguards.
Why is an SSL certificate essential for my website?
SSL certificates are crucial for establishing trust with website visitors. They indicate that the site is authentic and safe to use and that sensitive information shared on the site is safeguarded. Overall, SSL certificates play a vital role in ensuring the security and integrity of online communication and transactions.
That being said, beware of any website that does not have an SSL certificate. One way to determine if a site has an SSL certificate is to look for https:// at the beginning of the URL instead of just http://. Most browsers display a padlock icon next to the URL when the site is secure. Users can also click the padlock icon to view more information about the SSL certificate, such as the issuing authority and expiration date. Some websites may include a trust seal or badge on their pages to indicate that they are SSL-certified.
How does an SSL certificate affect search rankings?
Search engines prioritize secure websites when displaying search results, giving preference to those with SSL certificates. Websites with SSL certificates are more likely to rank higher in search results, increasing visibility and credibility among users. By investing in an SSL certificate, website owners secure their data and improve their online presence through improved search engine rankings.
Squarespace and SSL Certificates
Squarespace offers FREE built-in SSL certificates for all websites and domains hosted on its platform. This offer means Squarespace websites automatically include a secure HTTPS connection, which is usually an up-charged service by other providers.
By safeguarding user data and maintaining a trustworthy online environment, taking steps like an SSL or two-step authentication can help you grow your business behind the scenes. At the same time, you focus on the front-facing aspects.
Are you interested in learning more about improving your website? Contact Appear Design to get started.
