HTTP vs. HTTPS

HTTP vs. HTTPS

HTTP: HyperText Transfer Protocol
HTTPS: HyperText Transfer Protocol Secure

HTTP was first introduced in 1991, allowing for communication and collaboration over the internet. HTTP created a standard method for sending and receiving files over the internet and was an integral step in creating the World Wide Web. With its introduction, a more secure and faster way of exchanging data on the web emerged – HTTPS, which ensured that data sent between two web servers remained private and secure. HTTPS It provided an extra layer of security for sensitive information, such as passwords and credit card numbers, that were transmitted over the Internet. While the original use for HTTPS was for ecommerce transactions, email, and other sensitive data transfers, today it is a requirement for all websites to protect data from phishing attacks.

How does HTTPS work?

It is a secure form of communication on the web, designed to protect the integrity and privacy of the data being transferred from a website to a web browser. It does this by encrypting the data and sending it via an SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) protocol. When the web browser connects to the website, the browser first requests a secure connection, then a special certificate is generated for the website and sent back to the web browser. This certificate then confirms that the website is who it says it is and allows the browser to continue establishing a secure connection. Once a secure connection has been established, all data sent to and from the website will be encrypted, which helps keep the information confidential and secure.

Why is HTTPS important?

The security risks associated with HTTP are real and have severe consequences, especially if you are in ecommerce, finance, government, or have any other business model that involves handling sensitive customer data over the internet. HTTP has the potential for an outsider to tamper with pages that your site visitors navigate to, including changing content or removing elements from the page. They can insert advertisements or behavioral tracking cookies for advertisements, and other times do far greater vandalism, causing reputational damage, financial losses, and emotional distress.

How to switch from HTTP to HTTPS?

• Step 1: Ensure that you have an SSL Certificate. In order to switch from HTTP to HTTPS, you must have an SSL Certificate. You can obtain this from a Certificate Authority (CA).

• Step 2: Make sure all links and references are updated. After you obtain your SSL Certificate, make sure to update any internal and external links, redirects, and references from HTTP to HTTPS.

• Step 3: Redirect traffic from HTTP to HTTPS. Once all of your internal and external links and references have been updated, you must create a redirect that sends all incoming HTTP requests to the HTTPS version of your website.

• Step 4: Test to make sure the transition was successful. Test your website thoroughly to make sure all content, pages, links, and resources are loading correctly when using HTTPS. If you find any issues, correct them before you go live with your new HTTPS site.

• Step 5: Submit a new XML sitemap. Finally, submit a new XML sitemap with your updated HTTPS links to Google Search Console to make sure your new site is indexed correctly.

By following these five simple steps, you can easily switch from HTTP to HTTPS. Doing so is not only a great way to ensure that your website is secure and users’ data is kept safe, but you will also be compliant with the Google and laws relating to data privacy.

Related: Submitting a sitemap