When someone visits your website, they expect their information to be protected and the site to feel professional. That's why the difference between HTTP and HTTPS matters.
What is HTTP?
HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol) is the basic protocol a browser uses to communicate with a website —how data is sent and received between the site and the visitor. The problem: HTTP doesn't encrypt what's transmitted, so in certain scenarios third parties could intercept data like contact forms, login details or anything a customer submits. Today a site on plain HTTP can look outdated or even insecure.
What is HTTPS?
HTTPS (Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure) is the secure version. It uses an SSL/TLS certificate to encrypt communication between the visitor's browser and the server, and browsers show a padlock to signal a secure connection.
HTTP vs HTTPS at a glance
| HTTP | HTTPS | |
|---|---|---|
| Encrypts information | No | Yes |
| User trust | Lower | Higher |
| Browser warnings | Possible ("Not secure") | None |
| Forms, logins, stores | Not recommended | Protected |
| Professional image | Weaker | Stronger |
Why HTTPS matters for a business
- More customer confidence when filling out forms or leaving their data.
- Protection of the information traveling between the user and the site.
- Better professional image —a "Not secure" label reads as a careless business.
- Better compatibility with modern tools, integrations and payment gateways.
- Alignment with current web best practices.
At DISSAU we set up HTTPS and the SSL certificate, redirect HTTP→HTTPS so visitors always land on the secure version, and review the site so nothing keeps loading over an insecure route —within the scope of the contracted services.
Still stuck?
If you didn't find what you were looking for, write to us and we'll help with your specific case.