What is the importance of HTTPS for website security?
HTTPS (Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure) is a secure version of HTTP. HTTP was originally used to transfer data over the internet using a client server. HTTPS, on the other hand, encrypts the data passing between the server and the browser, using TLS (Transport Layer Security) and then SSL (Secure Sockets Layer).
The encryption sends data that you cannot understand, until it is unlocked, which allows users to share sensitive data, such as person information or passwords. This is done safely and securely, enabling users to share this information with one hundred percent confidence.
These are basically the same protocol, except HTTPS has extra encryption and security. HTTP sites change to HTTPS by securing a SSL certificate. This certificate is a small file protecting the transfer of data between the browser and server.
The SSL certificate is responsible for encrypting the data, making it unreadable when it is transmitted. Websites that are HTTPS enabled have a SSL certificated form a trusted Certificate Authority. When the browser tries to connect with a server using HTTPS, it immediately checks the SSL certificate matches the domain name.
HTTP connections, on the other hand, are not secure, especially when you use public Wi-Fi. Anyone can intercept the communications, using accessible software. HTTP does not use a SSL certificate, therefore any information shared over the internet is unencrypted plain text.
HTTPS is now the preferred option for any activity taking place on the internet, protecting your website visitors. It is essential for websites, reducing the risk of cyber-attacks, while ensuring your visitors information they may share on your site is one hundred percent secure.
HTTPS provides a trustworthy option for website visitors. It enables them to double check your domain name against the SSL certificate. It makes it near impossible for cyber attackers to intercept the data, enabling visitors to share personal information with confidence.
It is important these days to gain your website visitors trust. Potential customers want assurance that they payment details remain safe and secure. When your website does not have HTTPS, you risk your customers privacy, along with damaging your own reputation.
HTTP/2 was introduced in 2015 and resulted in more browsers prioritising security. HTTP/2 allows for improved user experience and faster website browsing, thanks to newly introduced features.
It is important for all business websites to ensure they are using HTTPS, especially when asking visitors for sensitive information. Reputable businesses understand how important website security is. In order to have HTTPS on your website, you need to secure your security certificate from a Certificate Authority. There are different security certificates available:
HTTPS is effective at securing connects through authentication and encryption. Secured connections use public private key pairing to ensure your website visitors data is transferred safely from their browser to your server. If your business holds large amounts of customer data, you show yourself as credible and reliable.
At the same time, users need to remain vigilant when using the internet. Always double-checking the URL matches their intended destination. Be careful when entering personal details and passwords. Any payment pages that look suspicious should be avoided. As a user, you can validate a website by ensuring it has an updated certificate, identifying the website showing its correct domain name.
Are you unsure on how to secure your website? Do you want to discuss your website security in more detail? Give the team at Genie Crawl a call today. We can help you.
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