Secure Sockets Layer (SSL)

A security protocol that encrypts data traveling between a web browser and a server. SSL certificates are what make HTTPS possible, and since Google treats HTTPS as a ranking factor, SSL is now considered baseline for any website.

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Related Terms

Schema Markup

A structured data vocabulary you add to your HTML to help search engines understand the specific meaning of your content — whether it's a product, review, event, FAQ, or organization. Schema markup enables rich results that improve SERP visibility.

Search Algorithm

The system of rules, machine learning models, and ranking signals a search engine applies to sort and present results for any given query. Understanding what algorithms prioritize — content quality, backlinks, user experience — is the basis of all SEO work.

Search Engine Poisoning

A cyberattack where bad actors create pages optimized to rank for popular queries, then use those pages to distribute malware or steal credentials. It's a reminder that trust signals like domain authority and backlink quality exist for a reason.

Search Engine Results Pages (SERPs)

The pages Google (or any search engine) displays after a user submits a query. Modern SERPs include organic listings, paid ads, featured snippets, knowledge panels, and other features — all competing for the same click.

Search Intent

The reason behind a search query — whether the user wants to learn something (informational), find a specific site (navigational), compare options (commercial), or complete a purchase (transactional). Matching search intent is the first requirement for ranking.

Search Results

The ranked list of pages a search engine returns for a given query. Your position in search results depends on a combination of content relevance, technical health, user experience, and backlink strength.

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