You've probably heard of SSL. It stands for "Secure Sockets Layer." By definition, SSL is "a secure protocol developed for sending information securely over the Internet." Think of it this way...without SSL in place on a website, it's like having a private conversation with someone in the middle of Progressive Field. During an Indians game. Meaning anyone could hear it. But with SSL, that conversation takes place in a locked room with just you and the person you are talking to...much more private.

In the past, SSL was mainly used for websites with ecommerce functionality. Customers aren't going to provide credit card and payment information online without the assurance that their information is going to be protected and only used for the intended purpose. Flash forward to today, though, and SSL is needed for much more than that. 

Actually, since 2014, Google has been giving sites with an SSL in place a ranking boost. Not necessarily a huge one, but hey...a boost is a boost. Then things got serious when they started actually flagging websites without SSL as being 'not secure' with the use of an exclamation point icon. Go to your site right now and see how it displays. Do you see this icon?

Then Google is flagging your site as not being secure.

Next up? The Scarlet A of website identifiers, the actual words "Not Secure" clearly placed before your website URL. Nobody wants that. And this will start occurring in July 2018. (Yes, that's next month!)

While it's true that this is a Google mandate (so it will only take affect in Chrome), Chrome currently accounts for more than 50% of browser use worldwide. You don't want to mess around with that.

So even if you don't think you need SSL, here are the benefits:

• Assurance to your site visitors that their information is protected.
• Possibly a little boost in ranking from Google.
• No angry messages next to your website address.

Have questions? There's additional information here. Ready to move forward? Give us a call at 440.600.2495 or use our online form to get in touch and we'll help you navigate the process so that you can feel secure in your decision.