What is HTTPS, and why is it important for SEO?

@declan_ritchie 

HTTPS, or Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure, is the secure version of HTTP. It is an encrypted communication protocol that ensures the privacy and integrity of data transferred between a website and its users.

HTTPS is important for SEO (Search Engine Optimization) for several reasons:

1. Security and Trust: HTTPS provides a secure connection, encrypting data and preventing unauthorized interception or tampering. This assures users that their information, such as personal details or credit card numbers, is safe, fostering trust in the website.
2. Data Integrity: HTTPS prevents data modification during transfer, ensuring that the information received by users is the same as that sent by the website. This is crucial for maintaining the credibility of a website.
3. Ranking Signal: In 2014, Google officially declared HTTPS as a ranking signal. Websites with HTTPS may receive a slight boost in their search engine rankings compared to those without HTTPS. While it's just one of many factors affecting SEO, Google's emphasis on website security makes it important for maintaining a competitive position in search results.
4. Referral Data: When a secure website links to a non-secure website, the referral information gets stripped away in the analytics, appearing as "direct traffic" instead of properly attributing the source. By moving to HTTPS, this problem is avoided, allowing website owners to track referral data accurately.
5. Browser Warnings: Modern browsers like Chrome display warnings to users when they visit non-secure websites, indicating that the connection is not secure. This can significantly impact user experience and lead to lower engagement and higher bounce rates. By implementing HTTPS, these warnings can be avoided.

In summary, HTTPS is important for SEO as it enhances security, builds trust, and provides a slight ranking boost, all while improving user experience and maintaining accurate referral data.