In the cutthroat world of local SEO, one tiny letter could be the game-changer for your website: the “S” in HTTPS. If you find yourself neck-and-neck with a competitor for a prime search keyword, that little “s” could be the ticket to the top of the search results.
As Gary Illyes from Google famously stated, “When two web pages are otherwise equal, the search engine prefers HTTPS sites.” So, if you’re still hanging on to that old HTTP protocol, it’s time for an upgrade. Here are three compelling reasons to switch your local business website to HTTPS.
1. HTTPS Can Help with SEO
Let’s talk rankings. The fact is, a secure website can significantly enhance your visibility. When two sites are essentially identical in content and quality, Google gives the nod to the one with HTTPS. This isn’t just a friendly suggestion; it’s part of Google’s quest to deliver the best possible user experience. A secure site instills trust and is generally favored over a non-secure one.
Having HTTPS on your site can boost your rankings on Google—simple as that. This shift could mean the difference between your business being found or getting lost in the sea of search results.
2. It Helps Keep Your Website Secure
Kayce Basques, a Google technical writer, puts it bluntly: “Every unprotected HTTP request can potentially reveal information about the behaviors and identities of your users.” This means that even if you don’t handle sensitive data, switching to HTTPS is crucial for protecting your site and your users.
With HTTPS, you create a secure line of communication between your website and your visitors. This helps prevent malicious attacks and unauthorized tampering with your website. In an age where data breaches are becoming alarmingly common, securing your site can offer peace of mind and safeguard your customers' data.
3. AMP Requires HTTPS
If you're serious about thriving online, you need to hop on the mobile revolution. Google's Accelerated Mobile Pages (AMP) are designed to make content load faster on mobile devices, which is vital in today's fast-paced world. And guess what? AMP requires HTTPS to function properly.
Modern web browsers and applications increasingly demand HTTPS for optimal performance. Ignoring this shift could leave you behind the curve and hinder your website's performance.
In the words of digital marketing expert Neil Patel, switching to HTTPS is no longer optional if you want to remain relevant and competitive in today’s digital landscape. Contact your hosting provider for guidance on making this essential transition.
In a digital world where visibility is everything, GMB Fox ensures your business isn’t just online—it’s the first choice customers make. Let us handle the complexities of digital marketing, so you can focus on what truly matters: growing your business.
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