Google has given webmasters and online business owners a new reason to move their sites to a more secured and encrypted location. According to the tech giant, it is making HTTPS a ranking signal in its search algorithm. As such, websites that will make the switch from HTTP to HTTPS will receive a boost in search rankings.
According to Google Webmaster Trends Analyst Pierre Far, the latest move is in line with efforts to make the World Wide Web a much safer place for all users. He pointed out that all types of communication, the Internet included, should be safe by default. “Over the past few months we’ve been running tests taking into account whether sites use secure, encrypted connections as a signal in our search ranking algorithms. We’ve seen positive results, so we’re starting to use HTTPS as a ranking signal,” the tech giant said in an announcement.
For now, the update is only affecting less than 1% of global queries. In addition, it is not as important as other signals, such as high-quality content, when it comes to determining a website’s ranking. However, Google said it is planning to strengthen HTTPS as a key ranking factor to encourage all website owners to move from HTTP to HTTPS.
John Mueller, another webmaster trends analyst at Google, said even if you’re just running a blog or a “content site,” making the switch will still be useful. For starters, it ensures data integrity. Mueller explained that only by serving securely can you guarantee that someone is not altering how your content is being received by your target audience.
Aside from having better search rankings and stronger data security, moving your site from HTTP to HTTPS can also help ensure your site’s integrity and authenticity. Mueller said it is actually quite useful for informational sites because it gives online users the impression that you’re the one who’s really providing information for your audience and not someone else pretending to be you. This gives users peace of mind knowing that they are indeed receiving quality and reliable information from a trusted expert.
However, Google warned that moving your site from HTTP to HTTPS could lead to technical problems if not done correctly. Because of this, the tech giant is providing some tips and assistance for those who want to migrate their site to a more secure location. To view its help files, Google is encouraging site owners to visit its support site for webmasters.
If you own a website, now is perhaps the best time to move from HTTP to HTTPS. With Google’s latest update, not only can it help ensure the safety, security, and integrity of your site, it can improve its search rankings, as well.
