HTTPS
Example: A downtown burger joint notices its site shows a "Not Secure" warning in the address bar, switches on free HTTPS through its host, and the padlock appears, so visitors no longer hesitate before tapping the order button.
SSL certificate, the padlock
The little padlock icon in the browser's address bar. It means your site is served over a secure, encrypted connection — everything between the visitor and your server is scrambled in transit.
Why it matters
Modern browsers flag non-HTTPS sites with a big "Not Secure" warning. Google has used HTTPS as a ranking signal since 2014. Most good hosts give it to you for free via Let's Encrypt or Cloudflare; if yours charges extra, move hosts.
Frequently asked
What is HTTPS?
HTTPS is the little padlock icon in the browser's address bar. It means your site is served over a secure, encrypted connection — everything between the visitor and your server is scrambled in transit.
Why does HTTPS matter for a restaurant?
Modern browsers flag non-HTTPS sites with a big "Not Secure" warning. Google has used HTTPS as a ranking signal since 2014. Most good hosts give it to you for free via Let's Encrypt or Cloudflare; if yours charges extra, move hosts.
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