HTTPS

Why HTTPS matters

HTTPS encrypts all data transferred between browsers and your server. Without it, anyone monitoring network traffic can see form submissions, login credentials, and browsing behavior. This isn't just theoretical—public WiFi networks create easy interception opportunities.

Modern browsers display prominent warnings for non-HTTPS sites: "Not Secure" in the address bar. These warnings destroy trust before visitors even see your content. Many browser features—geolocation, camera access, service workers—now require HTTPS to function.

HTTPS as a ranking factor

Google confirmed HTTPS as a ranking signal in 2014. While it's a lightweight factor compared to content quality, all else being equal, HTTPS sites rank better than HTTP equivalents. Given HTTPS is now expected baseline behaviour, there's no reason not to use it.

Beyond direct ranking impact, HTTPS affects trust signals. Higher trust leads to better engagement metrics—lower bounce rates, longer time on page, improved conversions. These engagement signals influence rankings indirectly.

SSL certificates and implementation

SSL certificates enable HTTPS by authenticating your site's identity and establishing encrypted connections. Previously, SSL certificates required manual purchase, installation, and renewal—creating barriers to HTTPS adoption.

Let's Encrypt changed this by offering free, automated certificates. Services like Cloudflare Pages provide automatic SSL—certificates provision, install, and renew without manual intervention. HTTPS becomes effortless.

HTTPS in every Fernside site

All Fernside sites deploy with automatic SSL via Cloudflare. HTTPS works from day one without configuration, cost, or maintenance. You never think about certificate renewals or HTTPS setup—it just works.

We also implement proper redirects ensuring HTTP requests automatically redirect to HTTPS, maintaining link equity from any HTTP links while enforcing secure connections.