Greater adoption of secure socket layers (SSL) certificates is essential if Web site owners want to better their Google search engine rankings.
This is according to Domains.co.za which highlighted Google’s recent announcement that it would start placing greater emphasis on sites secured with SSL certificates as part of the company’s drive for a “Safer Worldwide Web”.
“Although SSL certificates are incredibly affordable, they bring enormous business benefits. SSL-secured sites will soon rank higher in Google search results than unsecured Web sites. Google Chrome users will start to see an ‘Insecure’ status on any Web site that is not protected via SSL certification,” says Wayne Diamond, MD of Domains.co.za.
“SSL certificates also help instil the kind of confidence in the local Web that will boost South African Internet penetration,” says Diamond. Domains.co.za is a leading registrar of .ZA domain names such as .co.za. Increasing Internet usage should be a national priority because there is a direct correlation between Web penetration and the kind of economic growth that creates jobs and cuts into poverty.
According to a report by global consulting firm McKinsey, growing use of the Internet in Africa could boost the continent’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) by $300-billion in the next 10 years.
An SSL certificate is a form of encrypting online data that is being sent or received while Internet users navigate Web sites. This data typically includes sensitive information such as telephone numbers and credit card details. By creating a secure connection between the user’s computer and the server that a particular Web site is hosted on, potential customers receive peace of mind.
The more the local Web becomes synonymous with up-to-date SSL certificates, the more South Africans are likely to feel confident interacting and transacting with .ZA Web sites.
“Having an SSL certificate not only protects your customers’ personal data, but also establishes a higher regard for your company. A company that has taken the time and effort to protect their clients whether they are retailing on the Web, or not, shows that they are serious about providing a quality service,” Diamond adds.
Pricing of SSL certificates has been dramatically reduced over the years. Most companies can use certificates costing as little as R250 per year, says Diamond. While some hosting companies charge for the installation of SSL certificates, clients hosting with Domains.co.za receive their installation at no charge. Non-clients can still purchase certificates from Domains.co.za and have their current hosting companies install the certificates.
