HTTPS is the secure version of HTTP, using TLS (Transport Layer Security) encryption to protect data transmitted between browsers and servers.
Why HTTPS matters
- Security: Encrypts data in transit
- Privacy: Prevents eavesdropping
- Integrity: Data can't be modified in transit
- Authentication: Verifies website identity
- SEO: HTTPS is a Google ranking signal
- Features: Many web APIs require HTTPS
HTTP vs HTTPS
| Aspect | HTTP | HTTPS | |--------|------|-------| | Encryption | No | Yes | | Port | 80 | 443 | | URL | http:// | https:// | | Certificate | Not needed | Required |
HTTPS indicators
Modern browsers show:
- Lock icon in address bar
- "Not Secure" warning for HTTP
- Certificate information on click
Implementing HTTPS
- Obtain an SSL/TLS certificate
- Install certificate on server
- Redirect HTTP to HTTPS
- Update internal links
- Update canonical URLs
Related Terms
Downtime
Periods when a website or service is unavailable or not functioning properly for users.
Page Experience
A set of signals that Google uses to measure how users perceive the experience of interacting with a web page beyond its pure information value.
SSL Certificate
A digital certificate that authenticates a website's identity and enables an encrypted connection between a web server and browser.
Uptime Monitoring
A type of monitoring that continuously checks whether a website or service is available and responding to requests.