According to a recent report, Google may boost the search engine ranking of websites that use encryption. The news comes from a report by the .
Google’s Matt Cutts apparently hinted recently that this is something that the search giant is considering, and he has apparently spoken in private conversations about the possibility of this affecting search engine ranking in the future.
The Importance of Encryption
What this would do is make the majority of websites use encryption, and this in turn would make users’ data safer on the web, as virtually every website would use encrypted data. Encryption is a method of converting information or data into a code, especially to prevent unauthorized access. By using encryption, websites can ensure that any data transferred between the user and the site remains private and secure from potential hackers.
This is apparently Google’s reasoning behind the potential change, and considering all the recent news about the NSA spying on web users, it may not be a bad thing. The NSA revelations have made both users and companies more aware of the importance of data privacy and security. By incentivizing encryption, Google could be taking a significant step towards a more secure internet.
Potential Impact on Website Owners
If this change does go ahead in the future, it apparently won’t happen anytime soon, and Google will probably give websites plenty of time to make the necessary changes. Transitioning to an encrypted website, typically through HTTPS, involves obtaining a security certificate and ensuring that all data transfers are secure. While this can be a straightforward process for some, it may require more effort and resources for others, especially for larger websites with extensive content.
For website owners, this potential change means that adopting encryption could become a crucial factor in maintaining or improving their search engine rankings. Websites that fail to implement encryption might find themselves at a disadvantage, potentially losing traffic to competitors who have made the switch. This could be particularly impactful for e-commerce sites, where trust and security are paramount for users making online transactions.
Moreover, the move towards encryption aligns with broader trends in web development and user expectations. Modern web browsers already flag non-HTTPS sites as “Not Secure,” which can deter users from visiting or interacting with such sites. By prioritizing encrypted sites in search rankings, Google would be reinforcing this trend and encouraging a safer browsing environment.
In addition to enhancing security, encryption can also improve website performance. HTTPS can enable HTTP/2, a major revision of the HTTP network protocol, which can lead to faster page load times and better overall user experience. This dual benefit of improved security and performance makes the case for encryption even stronger.
Source The Verge
Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals
Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
