Protocols HTTP a HTTPS is one of the cornerstones of the Internet. Everyone who uses the web encounters them, even if they often don't realise it - they are part of every web address. Their importance to the functioning and security of websites is crucial. In this article, we'll look at what these protocols mean, how they work, and why they are now HTTPS practically a necessity.
What is the difference between HTTP and HTTPS?
The difference between HTTP a HTTPS is primarily about the security of the data being transmitted. While HTTP sends information as plain text, HTTPS uses SSL/TLS certificate to encrypt them.
- HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol): Communication is unprotected. An attacker can easily eavesdrop or alter the data between the user and the server.
- HTTPS (Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure): The data is encrypted. Even if intercepted, they are illegible to an attacker, ensuring secure transmission of passwords and payment details.
In addition to safety, there is also a difference in credibility and SEO. Browsers mark HTTP sites as „Insecure“ and Google favours HTTPS sites in search results.
Why HTTPS is important for all websites
You may be thinking that if you don't sell or collect sensitive data on your website, you don't need HTTPS. The opposite is true. Google now uses HTTPS as one of the factors for ranking sites in search. It also protects common data - such as cookies - and prevents content modification along the way (e.g. unwanted ads inserted by the ISP).
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How to switch from HTTP to HTTPS
- Get an SSL/TLS certificate - you can use commercial options or free available Let's Encrypt.
- Install the certificate on the server - you can usually do this through the administration of the hosting service.
- Set up redirection from HTTP to HTTPS - so that all visitors get to a secure version of the site.
- Update internal links and resources - images, scripts and stylesheets should be loaded over HTTPS.
- Verify functionality - Check that there is no "mixed content", where some content is still running on HTTP.
The main advantages of HTTPS:
- Security: Protecting data from interception and modification.
- User confidence: The green lock in the address bar looks trustworthy.
- Necessary for SEO: Better ranking in search results.
- Integration with modern technologiesA: Some browser features (e.g. PWA) only work on HTTPS.
Overview: HTTP vs. HTTPS
| Feature | HTTP | HTTPS |
|---|---|---|
| Encryption of transmission | No | Yes |
| Protection against eavesdropping | No | Yes |
| Protection against content modification | No | Yes |
| Suitable for SEO | No | Yes |
| Recommended for all sites | No | Yes |
Summary
HTTP and HTTPS are the basic protocols for communicating on the web, with HTTPS being a modern, secure option that protects data and increases the trustworthiness of the web. Today, the question is no longer whether to implement HTTPS, but rather how to do it quickly. If your site is still running on HTTP, yesterday was the time to switch - not only for security reasons, but also for better search engine rankings.
When switching from HTTP to HTTPS, the address of every page on the website will change, so you need to configure Redirecting from old addresses to new ones. Without it, you'll lose both backlinks and your search rankings.
