HTTPS – Getting Secure

Posted January 24, 2017 by Unlimited

What is HTTPS?

HTTPS is the secure version of the HTTP protocol, and it has been a standard of the web for a while now.

In a nutshell, HTTPS provides secure connections between the browser and the server. What this means is that data that is transmitted between a user browsing your site and the server your site is hosted on is protected.

 

 

HTTPS is used to prevent third parties from intercepting sensitive information, for example when you are online banking, chatting on social media or sending email.

Web users are increasingly checking to see if the site they are on is using the HTTPS protocol, and that the padlock symbol is displayed. This assures the user that any interaction they have with the site is secured, and that any attacks are being prevented.

 

 

How do I make my site use HTTPS?

In order to get your site using SSL you will need an SSL certificate (Secure Socket Layer certificate).

These are relatively easy to install, and we have tutorial videos to guide you through the process. If you are using a Plesk control panel, then watch the following two videos which will take you through the process.

 

 

 

 

If you are using a cPanel control panel, you can watch the following two videos which explain the process.

 

 

 

 

Why should I get an SSL Certificate?

There are a number of benefits of having an SSL certificate, but the main plus point is the increased confidence visitors will have to interact with your site. Once your SSL certificate is installed, you will be able to use the HTTPS protocol and your site will have the padlock symbol.

Also, way back in 2014 on the 6th August, Google announced that they would be favouring sites that were secured with 2048-bit SSL certificates. In effect, sites that are properly secured with an SSL certificate get better page rankings and better search results than sites that are not secured.

We offer four levels of SSL certification, depending on your requirements. The amount of verification required increases with each level, as does the time it will take to issue the certificate. A standard SSL certificate can usually be issued in less than an hour, whereas an extended (or EV) SSL certificate can take a week or more to confirm all of the details.

If you would like to know more about SSL certificates then you can find out more on our website.

If you would like to discuss your SSL requirements you can also get in touch with us on our contact page.

Categories: cPanel, Plesk, SSL Certificates