What is HTTP?

Let's first understand what HTTP is. It expands as Hypertext Transfer Protocol which is being used right from the origination of the internet to transmit data from web servers to browsers. This procedure enables any visitor to open and view web pages. 

HTTP allows different types of systems to interact with each other. Every initial–stage website has used it and most still use it. 

The primary concern revolving around HTTP is that there are chances of security breach or intrusion of privacy. It means the information transferred can be visible to just about anyone. It also implies that it is far more simple for anyone to gain access or change the website's content. 

What is HTTPS?

HTTPS can be described as Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure. Basically, It performs the same tasks but with an extra layer of security. In contrast to HTTP, HTTPS performs encryption of the information between the browser and the server. The added layer of encryption prevents hackers from stealing user information. Before 2014, many e-commerce websites made use of HTTPS for securing payment information. However, due to the problematic flow between websites and information, more websites are switching to HTTPS.

HTTPS protects information by using an SSL (secure sockets layer) certificate for your kind information. This builds a protected encrypted connection between the browser and the server. This secures sensitive information from being stolen. 

What is the Difference?

Basically, HTTP and HTTPS are both used to transmit information between the web server and the browser. The significant point of difference between the two is that HTTPS uses an SSL certificate. This is very important when websites collect sensitive information such as credit card information, passwords or social security numbers. 

An SSL Certificate retrieves information and encrypts it. Subsequently, the encrypted information is translated into a secure code that implies hackers won't fathom it even if they manage to steal the information due to the secret code. 

Moreover, apart from the additional security layer, HTTPS is also protected by TLS (transfer layer security) protocol which lends added data integrity. It implies that watering hole attacks, corruption or modification of data transmission can be prevented. 

One more advantage of TLS is the additional site authentication. This ensures users that they are connecting with the authentic and intended website. Site authentication allows the website users to become aware of the fact that the information is being transmitted at the correct place. 

HTTP versus HTTPS: Which one is best?

HTTPS is obviously a gamechanger over HTTP. However, HTTPS is mostly useful for eCommerce websites or those websites which collect potentially sensitive information. One piece of advice: if you aren't one of these websites, you can go without using HTTPS to avoid critical hassles. 

Nevertheless, adopting the usage of HTTPS can still be beneficial for you. Apart from additional security, HTTPS enhances your SEO results. This is excellent news for any organization that wishes to carve its global niche. 

HTTPS and SEO Potential

There are numerous reasons for switching to HTTPS whether you're willing to enhance your SEO efforts or anything else. All those reasons will retain your visitors and get you more. The SEO enhancers gained by switching to HTTPS involves:

1- ELIGIBLE FOR AMP

Creating Accelerated Mobile Page is becoming the need of the hour for every website. A lot of people surf the internet from their mobiles. Therefore nobody would want a slow-paced website. Everyone loves a faster-website which comes from AMP page that requires an HTTPS site. Local SEO and Mobile search ranking are pivotal for your website rankings. This is one of the biggest reasons for switching to HTTPS to increase your SEO efforts. 

2- DEVELOPS VISITOR TRUST

When you see a webpage with a warning message of potential malware attacks on your site or possible stealing your information, don't you hate it and feel threatened for a moment. Nobody likes this experience, and besides, it breaks your trust. Therefore, HTTPS comes with an SSL certificate that provides a completely secured experience that builds and maintains your visitors' trust. How? Because it blocks security breaches and protects sites from potential risks. 

3- BOOSTS YOUR WEBSITE RANKING  

As mentioned above, Google gives a bit of boost to ratings to those websites switching from HTTP to HTTPS. However, this is not the only method by which HTTPS boosts the Google rankings. When you switch to HTTPS, your visitors will often check out the website more and stay glued for more time. Why? Simply because it's a secure website without any possible threats or intrusion of privacy. More recently, website visitors notice the lock symbol on their browsers, making them aware of being on a secure website. This lock symbol features only on HTTPS-enabled websites.

Finally switching to HTTPS

After understanding the distinction between HTTP v.s HTTPS and what impact they will have on your SEO, you must have understood that your organization requires switching to HTTPS, which will be beneficial for you.