A Practical Guide to Migrating from HTTP to HTTPS and Its Impact on SEO

migrating from HTTP to HTTPS to boost website security and SEO in 2025

Migrating from HTTP to HTTPS: A Practical Guide with SEO Benefits

If your website is still running on HTTP, you’re not only missing out on better security—you might also be losing valuable traffic and rankings on Google. Migrating from HTTP to HTTPS isn’t just a technical update; it’s essential for your site’s credibility, security, and SEO in 2025.

In this practical guide, we’ll clearly outline why migrating from HTTP to HTTPS is critical, the steps involved, and how this simple upgrade can significantly boost your search engine rankings.

What Is Migrating from HTTP to HTTPS and Why It Matters

HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol) is the standard protocol for sending and receiving data on the web. However, it lacks encryption, which means that any data shared between the website and the user can be intercepted.

In contrast, HTTPS (Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure) adds a critical layer of protection by using SSL/TLS encryption. This encryption ensures that data such as passwords, payment details, and personal information stay secure during transmission.

As a result, websites using HTTPS not only protect user data but also gain higher credibility and trust. Migrating from HTTP to HTTPS plays a key role in modern web security and SEO success.

Benefits of Migrating from HTTP to HTTPS for SEO and Security

Visual overview of HTTPS migration benefits including SEO boost and better security

Enhanced Security: HTTPS protects your website and user data by encrypting information exchanged.
Improved Trust and Credibility: Browsers show a padlock icon for HTTPS websites, reassuring visitors their data is secure.
SEO Boost: Google has openly confirmed that HTTPS is a ranking factor. Websites with HTTPS consistently rank better than unsecured websites.
Better Performance: HTTPS supports modern web protocols, improving website loading speed and overall user experience.

How to Migrate from HTTP to HTTPS: Step-by-Step Guide

1. Choose and Purchase an SSL Certificate

Obtain your SSL certificate from a reputable provider or your hosting service.

2. Install and Activate SSL on Your Hosting

Your hosting provider usually offers simple tools or support to help activate SSL quickly.

Need a hand with SSL activation? Our Domestic IT Support has you covered.

3. Set Up 301 Redirects

Diagram showing 301 redirect used when migrating from HTTP to HTTPS

Use a permanent 301 redirect to ensure users (and Google) are automatically redirected from HTTP pages to the secure HTTPS versions.

4. Update URLs in Google Search Console and Analytics

Submit your new HTTPS sitemap to Google Search Console and update your Google Analytics settings to reflect the HTTPS domain.

5. Test and Troubleshoot After Migrating to HTTPS

Use online tools like “Why No Padlock?” to ensure your entire site uses HTTPS. Fix any mixed content warnings and verify all redirects are correctly working.

Simplify your migration process with our Business Web App solutions.

Common HTTPS Migration Mistakes and How to Fix Them

Mixed Content Warnings

Ensure all resources (images, CSS, scripts) are served over HTTPS. Replace any HTTP references in your website’s code.

Incorrect or Incomplete Redirects

Verify all HTTP URLs redirect correctly with a permanent 301 redirect to the corresponding HTTPS pages.

Slow Website Performance After Migrating to HTTPS

Optimize your SSL setup and check your hosting configuration. Using a CDN can significantly boost site speed after migration.

Need an optimized web solution? Explore our Business+ Web App for enhanced performance and security.

SEO Impact of Migrating from HTTP to HTTPS

SEO benefits of HTTPS migration including improved CTR, reduced bounce rate, and long-term SEO growth

Improved Click-Through Rate (CTR)

The secure HTTPS padlock can significantly increase user confidence, encouraging clicks and engagement.

Reduced Bounce Rate

Visitors trust HTTPS websites more and are less likely to bounce, improving your site’s overall metrics and rankings.

Long-Term SEO Benefits of HTTPS

Google consistently rewards secure sites with better rankings, making HTTPS essential for sustainable online growth.

Final Thoughts & Next Steps

Migrating from HTTP to HTTPS isn’t optional—it’s crucial for security, user trust, and better SEO performance. But remember, migrating requires careful planning and implementation.

🚀 Need Expert Help with Migrating from HTTP to HTTPS?

At HonourIT, we specialize in seamless, secure, and SEO-friendly website migrations. Check out our professional services at HonourIT Tech and let our team handle your transition with precision.

Make 2025 the year your site becomes secure, trusted, and highly ranked!

Ready to secure your website and boost your SEO? Contact HonourIT today for a smooth and expert HTTPS migration.

Why Every Small Business Needs a Web App in 2025

Web app for small business featured image with title text in modern flat design

In 2025, small businesses are facing more competition than ever — not just locally, but online. Customers now expect fast, personalised, and mobile-friendly experiences with every brand they interact with. This is exactly where a web app for small business becomes a game-changer.

Whether you’re a shop owner, freelancer, coach, or consultant, having a professional web app is no longer optional — it’s a necessity.

💡 Why Your Small Business Needs a Web App in 2025

Establishing a strong digital presence today means more than just having a website. A web app for small business is designed to help you engage, convert, and support your customers in real-time.

Here’s why it matters:

✅ 1. Always Accessible, Anywhere

Your clients can reach you 24/7 — from any device, without needing to download anything. That means more convenience for them and more business for you.

✅ 2. Enhanced User Experience

Web apps offer smoother navigation, personalised content, and faster load times.
They feel like mobile apps — but work straight from the browser.

✅ 3. Built-In Automation

From appointment reminders to order tracking, you can automate a ton of tasks — saving time and reducing errors.

✅ 4. Real-Time Interaction

Live chat, instant updates, customer dashboards — everything modern users expect, delivered through your own branded platform.

✅ 5. Data-Driven Decisions

Web apps allow you to collect valuable insights about your users’ behaviour, helping you improve your services and target better.

🧩 Who Can Benefit from a Web App for Small Business?

A web app is not just for tech companies. Businesses in all sectors are using them to stay ahead:

Retail shops offering online ordering or booking
Coaches & consultants managing sessions and clients
Clinics & salons with self-service appointment tools
Freelancers delivering work via dashboards
Online creators offering exclusive content

If your business relies on interaction, updates, or bookings — you need a web app.

📈 Why 2025 Is the Best Time to Get a Web App

Digital trends for small businesses in 2025 including mobile usage, customer expectations, online trust, and competitor actions

Let’s face it — the digital world isn’t slowing down:

📱 Mobile usage keeps growing
💬 Customers expect instant support
🔐 Trust is earned online first
🏆 Competitors are going digital, fast

A well-built web app for small business helps you stay relevant, look professional, and operate smarter.

🛠️ How to Start Building a Web App for Your Small Business

You don’t need to write code or hire a big agency to launch a professional web app. With the right tools, you can get started fast.

At HonourIT, we’ve created solutions specifically for small businesses — no tech headaches, just results.

🚀 Get Started with HonourIT

✔️ Looking for something simple and effective?
Check out our Business plan — a clean, responsive web app built for small business needs.

✔️ Want full customisation, integrations, and scalability?
Upgrade to Business+ — perfect for service providers and growing teams.

🔚 Final Thoughts

If you’re serious about growing your brand in 2025, investing in a web app for small business is one of the smartest moves you can make.
It’s affordable, practical, and powerful — and it sets you apart from the competition.

💡 Ready to take the next step?
Explore our Web App solutions and start building your digital fu

How to Create an E-commerce Website in London

How to create an e-commerce website in London can be a game-changer for your business. Whether you’re selling products or services, having a strong online presence will help you reach more customers and grow your brand. This guide walks you through the essential steps to set up a successful e-commerce website in London.

1. Define Your Products & Target Market

Before building your online store, decide on the type of products you’ll sell. Are they physical goods, digital downloads, or services?

Identify your target market—are you catering to individual consumers (B2C) or businesses (B2B)?

Understanding your audience will shape your entire e-commerce strategy.

2. Choose & Register a Domain Name

Your domain name is your online identity. Keep it short, memorable, and brand-friendly.

Avoid numbers or hyphens, as they can confuse users.

For a UK-based business, registering a .co.uk or .uk domain can boost local credibility.

Reliable domain registrars in the UK include:

3. Select a Reliable Hosting Provider

A good web hosting service ensures fast page speeds, security, and reliability.

Some of the best options for UK-based e-commerce websites are:

Bluehost – Great for small businesses.
SiteGround – Best for speed and performance.
Kinsta – Ideal for high-traffic online stores.

4. Choose the Right E-commerce Platform

Depending on your needs, you can select from various platforms to build your online store:

WooCommerce – A free WordPress plugin ideal for businesses that need flexibility and customisation.
Shopify – A subscription-based platform with an easy-to-use interface and integrated payment solutions.
Magento – An advanced, open-source platform suited for larger e-commerce businesses.

5. Design & Customise Your Website

Your website should be visually appealing, user-friendly, and mobile-responsive.

Many platforms offer ready-to-use templates, but for a more professional look, consider hiring a London-based web design agency or using custom web development services.

6. Add High-Quality Product Listings

Each product page should include:

High-resolution images from multiple angles.
Detailed product descriptions with key features and benefits.
Transparent pricing and stock availability.
Customer reviews and ratings (if applicable).

7. Set Up Secure Payment Methods

To gain trust and increase conversions, offer multiple secure payment options, including:

Debit/Credit Cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express).
PayPal.
Apple Pay & Google Pay.
Klarna or Clearpay (for buy-now-pay-later services).

8. Configure Shipping & Delivery Options

Partnering with reputable courier services ensures fast and reliable deliveries across London and the UK.

Popular options include:

Royal Mail – Best for standard UK-wide shipping.
DPD – Fast, reliable service with tracking.
Evri (formerly Hermes) – Budget-friendly for lightweight packages.

Providing free shipping over a certain amount or next-day delivery options can also boost sales.

9. Implement Digital Marketing & SEO

A successful e-commerce store needs strong marketing efforts. Consider:

SEO Optimisation – Ensure your website ranks well on Google for local searches (e.g., “buy handmade candles in London”).
PPC Advertising – Use Google Ads and Facebook Ads to drive traffic.
Social Media Marketing – Promote your products on Instagram, TikTok, and LinkedIn.
Email Marketing – Build a mailing list and send exclusive offers.

10. Ensure Legal Compliance

UK businesses must comply with:

GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) – Protects customer data and privacy.
Consumer Rights Act 2015 – Ensures clear refund and return policies.
UK E-commerce Regulations – Includes mandatory business details on the website (company name, contact info, etc.).

Final Thoughts

By following these steps and tailoring your strategy to the London market, you can learn how to create an e-commerce website in London that not only attracts local customers but also maximises sales, enhances brand visibility, and ensures long-term success in the competitive online marketplace.