Google now gives a boost to secure (HTTPS) websites
As of January 2017 Google Chrome, the majority leader in web browser usage (73% of the total market, according to W3Schools) will be giving websites with an SSL installed a boost on the page rankings (source. Although they are not technically penalizing non-SSL websites, this practice could easily cost your website ranking positions as SSL websites might surpass your page rank if you do not have an SSL installed.
Another downside to Google’s new SSL requirement is that now, instead of simply ‘not having a green lock’, your non-SSL website will instead have an unappealing and somewhat alarming red x beside the URL in your browser window. This could cause visitors to get the idea that they are in danger simply by visiting your website. If you are reading this in 2017 and you see no such ‘red x’ on your non-SSL website, keep in mind this visual element is only visible in the Google Chrome web browser.
Installing an SSL can be an easy practice if you have a small, properly developed website. The direct cost from hosting companies ranges from $50 to $80 per year. Our base cost for configuring and installing an SSL on an existing website starts at $250 for small, brochure-style websites. If you have an eCommerce website you most likely already have an SSL installed.
