Should we be using HTTPS?
If you are a dental practice who recieves dental referrals from other dentists and professional dental healthcare providers on behalf of a patient, then these forms (which are very useful ways of receiving referrals) are already on a secure server. We have done this across our websites as a step to secure this sensitive medical data.
But what about the rest of the website? Should we be looking to have the whole site on the this more secure system?
Let’s first understand what HTTP and HTTPS is by kind permission of Jim Ya at Searchenginewatch.com
Understanding HTTP vs. HTTPS
HTTP is the standard form used when accessing websites; it is the first part of a web address. HTTPS adds an additional layer of security by encrypting in SSL and sharing a key with the destination server that is difficult to hack. When a site is fully secured, many web browsers will adopt a green bar – and often, a little padlock – to let users know that the information they send through the site has been secured. Converting to HTTPS requires a site to purchase an SSL certificate from a hosting provider to handle the secret information needed to encrypt and decrypt the messages exchanged. SSL certificates cost between $59 and $1999 per year, depending on encryption strength, browser interaction features, and liability coverage if hacked.
Googles view of HTTPS
In August 2014, Google announced;
“[…] so we’re starting to use HTTPS as a ranking signal. For now, it’s only a very lightweight signal, affecting fewer than 1 percent of global queries, and carrying less weight than other signals, such as high-quality content, while we give webmasters time to switch to HTTPS. But over time, we may decide to strengthen it because we’d like to encourage all website owners to switch from HTTP to HTTPS to keep everyone safe on the Web.”
Google Reports HTTPs Affecting Less than 1 Percent of Queries
Whilst it is generally agreed upon that if all websites transfer over to HTTPS then the whole internet would be much safer place, at the moment other than a referral form, there is little to be gained from the expensive and time-consuming process. We are keeping an eye on the chit-chat regarding this amongst the SEO community.
If you have any questions about HTTP and HTTPS and your dental website, contact Dental Design on 01202 677277.
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