Do I need an SSL Certificate for my website?

What is an SSL certificate?

An SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) certificate is a digital certificate that encrypts the data exchanged between a user's browser and a website's server. This encryption ensures that sensitive information, such as login credentials, credit card details, and personal data, is kept secure and private. SSL certificates help:

Encrypt Data: They ensure that data transmitted between the user and the server remains encrypted and secure from eavesdroppers.

Authentication: They verify the identity of a website, ensuring that users are communicating with the intended site and not an impostor.

Trust: Websites with an SSL certificate display a padlock icon in the browser's address bar, indicating a secure connection, which builds trust with users.

SEO Boost: Search engines like Google give preference to websites with SSL certificates, which can improve your site's search engine ranking.

Different types of SSLs Certificate

SSL certificates come in several types, each suited to different needs and levels of validation. The main types are:

Domain Validated (DV) SSL:

Validation Level: Basic validation, checks if the applicant owns the domain.
Ideal For: Personal websites and blogs.
Cost: Usually the cheapest.

Organization Validated (OV) SSL:

Validation Level: Moderate validation, checks if the organization is legitimate and owns the domain.
Ideal For: Small to medium-sized business websites.
Cost: More expensive than DV SSL.

Extended Validation (EV) SSL:

Validation Level: Highest level of validation, involves a thorough vetting process.
Ideal For: E-commerce sites and businesses handling sensitive user data.
Cost: Most expensive.

Wildcard SSL:

Validation Level: Can be DV, OV, or EV.
Ideal For: Securing multiple subdomains under a single domain (e.g., blog.example.com, shop.example.com).
Cost: Varies, but generally more expensive due to the flexibility.

Multi-Domain (SAN) SSL:

Validation Level: Can be DV, OV, or EV.
Ideal For: Securing multiple domains with a single certificate (e.g., example.com, example.net).
Cost: Varies based on the number of domains covered.

Each type offers different levels of security, validation, and cost, making it easier for you to choose the right one for your specific needs.

How can I get an SSL Certificate?

You can purchase an SSL certificate from various reputable providers. Some of the best options from 2024 (source:Forbes):

Comodo SSL Store: Best overall

SSL.com: Best for fast turnaround times

DigiCert: Best customer support

Sectigo: Best for e-commerce business

AlphaSSL: Best for single-site value

Entrust: Best for multiple websites

GlobalSign: Best for growing companies

Also, most of the best registrars, website builders and web hosting providers offer free SSLs.

How much cost an SSL Certificate?

The cost of an SSL certificate can vary widely based on the type of certificate and the level of validation. Here's a general breakdown:

Domain Validated (DV) SSL: Around $5 to $10 per year.

Organization Validated (OV) SSL: Around $15 to $30 per year.

Extended Validation (EV) SSL: Around $40 to $100 per year.

Wildcard SSL: Around $50 to $100 per year.

Multi-Domain (SAN) SSL: Around $60 to $150 per year.

Prices can vary depending on the provider, the length of the certificate (1 year, 2 years, etc.), and any additional features or warranties included.

Some trusted providers where you can purchase SSL certificates:

Comodo SSL Store:

DV SSL: Starts at $7.95 per year.
OV SSL: Starts at $79.84 per year.
EV SSL: Starts at $135.44 per year.
Wildcard SSL: Starts at $83.34 per year.

SSL.com:

DV SSL: Starts at $36.75 per year.
OV SSL: Starts at $48.40 per year.
EV SSL: Starts at $184.50 per year.
Wildcard SSL: Starts at $224.25 per year.


DigiCert:

DV SSL: Starts at $399 per year.
OV SSL: Starts at $644 per year.
EV SSL: Starts at $995 per year.
Wildcard SSL: Starts at $1,495 per year.

Sectigo:

DV SSL: Starts at $15 per year.
OV SSL: Starts at $70 per year.
EV SSL: Starts at $135 per year.
Wildcard SSL: Starts at $180 per year.

Namecheap:

DV SSL: Starts at $5.99 per year.
OV SSL: Starts at $15.88 per year.
EV SSL: Starts at $59.99 per year.
Wildcard SSL: Starts at $59.88 per year.

Conclusion: SSL certificates are crucial for protecting user data and maintaining trust in your online presence.