What Is SSL? Why Your Website Needs That Little Padlock in the Address Bar
If you've ever clicked on a website and seen a warning that says “Not Secure,” that site doesn’t have SSL.
But what is SSL, exactly? And does your local business really need it?
In short: yes, and here’s why SSL is one of the simplest, most important upgrades you can make to your website.
1. SSL Makes Your Website Secure (And Shows Visitors They Can Trust You)
SSL stands for Secure Sockets Layer.
It's a form of encryption that protects data shared between your website and the people using it, like their contact details, booking information, or even the pages they visit.
When your website has SSL, your URL will begin with https:// and a padlock icon will appear in the browser bar.
Without SSL, your site might look like this:
🔓 http://yourbusiness.co.uk
And with SSL, it looks like this:
🔒 https://yourbusiness.co.uk
That padlock is more than just a visual cue; it tells your customers, “This business takes security seriously.”
And in a world where scams and spam are everywhere, that reassurance really matters.
2. Without SSL, People Might Get Scared Off Your Website
Modern browsers like Chrome, Safari, and Edge display a warning if a site doesn’t have SSL.
It might say:
“Your connection is not private.”
“Attackers might be trying to steal your information.”
Even if you're a friendly local plumber or dog walker, that message is enough to make a visitor click away instantly, and they may never come back.
This is especially true if your website asks people to:
Fill out a contact form
Make a booking or request a quote
Sign up for a newsletter
Log in to a customer portal or dashboard
Basically, if someone types into your website, you need SSL.
Otherwise, you risk looking untrustworthy or outdated, even if you’re brilliant in real life.
3. SSL Helps Your SEO (Even Just a Little)
Google has confirmed that SSL is a ranking factor, meaning it can affect where your site shows up in search results.
It’s not a major one, but it’s easy to implement and sends a positive signal to both search engines and users. Think of it like putting a seatbelt on your website: it won’t win the race alone, but it helps everything run more smoothly and securely.
And with local SEO, where you’re often competing with similar businesses in the same area, small advantages add up.
4. SSL Is Often Free and Quick to Set Up
A few years ago, SSL certificates were something you had to buy separately.
These days, most website hosts include them for free via Let’s Encrypt or a similar service.
If you’re not sure whether your website has SSL, do this:
Go to your website and check the browser bar and look for the padlock symbol.
If it starts with
https://- great, you’re covered.If it still shows
http://, or if there’s a “Not Secure” warning, it’s time to act.
How to get SSL on your site:
Log into your hosting provider (e.g. GoDaddy, IONOS, SiteGround, Bluehost).
Look for something called “Security” or “SSL”.
Activate or install the free SSL certificate.
Update your site settings (or ask your web developer to do it).
After setting it up, make sure all your pages automatically redirect from http:// to https://. This avoids duplicate versions of your site showing up in Google.
5. You Still Need SSL Even If You Don’t Sell Online
A lot of local business owners assume SSL is only needed for online shops.
But the truth is that SSL protects any kind of website visitor interaction.
Even if you:
Only collect enquiries
Only provide info and your phone number
Only have a basic site with your opening hours
…you still benefit from SSL. Because it’s not just about sales, it’s about building trust with potential customers the moment they land on your site.
If someone finds you through Google and sees a padlock, they’re more likely to stick around. If they see a “Not Secure” message, they may click away before even reading your homepage headline.
Bonus Tip: Your SSL Setup Affects Your Google Business Profile Clicks
Your Google Business Profile is often the first place people see your website link. If they click through and get a security warning, they’re gone. Fast.
SSL ensures a smooth, safe journey from your Business Profile to your website, which keeps your visibility and credibility intact.
Don’t Sleep on SSL
Adding SSL to your website is:
Free (in most cases)
Fast to set up
Great for trust
Good for Google
And unlike other SEO changes, you only have to do it once.
If you’re not sure whether your site has SSL, or you’re stuck figuring out how to set it up, SO SEO can help, or at least point you in the right direction.
That little padlock might seem minor, but it makes a big difference.
If you’re struggling to figure out whether or not your website has SSL security, or you need a hand getting it set up, send me a message and I’ll take a look for you (for free).
What does SSL stand for?
SSL stands for Secure Sockets Layer. It encrypts data sent between your website and its visitors.
How do I know if my website has SSL?
If your website starts with https:// and shows a padlock in the browser bar, it has SSL.
Is SSL required for small or local businesses?
Yes. Even if you don’t sell anything, SSL protects user data and builds trust with visitors.
Is SSL free?
Often, yes. Many website hosts offer free SSL certificates through services like Let’s Encrypt.
Does SSL help with SEO?
It can. Google uses SSL as a ranking factor, and secure sites help improve user trust and engagement.
