If you want more Google Love give Google what it is asking for, and Google is asking for secure file transfers between your hosting server and your website visitors.

Commonly referred to as a “secured” connection to your hosting server, https:// is an Internet communication protocol that protects the integrity and confidentiality of data by providing encryption, authentication, and data integrity.

Many website hosting companies offer free SSL certificates, including SiteGround, which is a Practical Online Marketing Recommended Resource.

Websites not using secured https:// connections may find it more difficult to get good rankings at Google. Installation and use of https:// is a search engine optimization best practice.

Action Items

Confirm that your website hosting uses a secured connection (https://) and it is configured properly.

Visit your website using your Firefox, Chrome, or Safari browser and look for the secured connection “little lock” in your browser address bar.