HTTP vs. HTTPS for SEO
Back in August 2014, Google officially announced that switching your website over to HTTPS would give you a minor ranking boost.
At the time, that sounded like a small tweak — but in reality, it was the beginning of a much bigger movement toward a safer, more trustworthy web.
HTTPS vs. HTTP — Understanding the Basics
No matter what type of website you manage, ensuring it’s secure is no longer optional.
HTTP and HTTPS are both protocols used to transfer data between your browser and a website server, but the difference lies in one critical detail — encryption.
- HTTP (HyperText Transfer Protocol): transfers data as plain text. It’s fast but unprotected.
- HTTPS (Secure HyperText Transfer Protocol): adds a layer of security via SSL (Secure Socket Layer) or TLS (Transport Layer Security), encrypting data during transmission.
That means any data — login credentials, personal info, credit card numbers — is scrambled so third parties can’t intercept it.
In other words, HTTPS helps protect both your visitors and your brand reputation.
Why Google Prefers HTTPS
When Google rolled out this change, it wasn’t just a technical update — it was a statement.
The company wanted to reward websites that cared about user safety, privacy, and trust.
“Security is a top priority for Google. We encourage all website owners to switch from HTTP to HTTPS to keep everyone safe online.” — Google Webmaster Blog
In simple terms, HTTPS became part of the ranking signal.
That means if two sites have similar content and quality, the one running on HTTPS will likely rank higher.
SEO Advantages of Switching to HTTPS
The SEO benefits of switching are both direct and indirect.
Here’s what happens when you make the move:
1. Increased Rankings
Google confirmed HTTPS as a positive ranking factor. While it might not dramatically change results overnight, it builds long-term trust with both search engines and users.
2. Better Referral Data
When traffic passes from an HTTPS site to another HTTPS site, referral data is preserved. Without HTTPS, it’s often lost and shows up as “direct traffic” instead.
3. Improved Security & Privacy
Encrypted communication means safer browsing, especially for transactions and logins.
This not only protects your users — it also helps safeguard your brand’s credibility.
Are There SEO Concerns When Switching?
Transitioning from HTTP to HTTPS can sound technical, but it’s manageable with the right steps.
Google has outlined several best practices to ensure a smooth switch:
- Update all internal links and canonical URLs to use https://
- Redirect old HTTP pages to HTTPS using 301 redirects
- Update sitemap and robots.txt accordingly
- Make sure to notify Google through Search Console after migration
- Use valid SSL/TLS certificates and renew them regularly
Once done correctly, your site will not only stay in Google’s good graces — it will perform better in search and user trust.
The Takeaway
Switching to HTTPS isn’t just about SEO points; it’s about building trust.
Google’s shift toward HTTPS was a clear signal that security, privacy, and credibility are integral parts of modern web design.
For creators and brands, the lesson is timeless:
When you care about your users’ safety, Google cares about your site.
If your site still runs on HTTP, now’s the time to make the move.
Not because Google says so — but because a trustworthy web is good for everyone.
