Free vs. Paid SSL Certificates: Which One Should You Choose?
Secure Socket Layer (SSL) protection has become essential for websites today. Google prioritizes websites with SSL certificates, making it necessary for site owners to choose between free and paid options.
While the decision may seem straightforward, there are important differences between free and paid SSL certificates that website owners should understand. In this guide, we’ll compare both options to help you determine which is best for your site.
—
What Is an SSL Certificate?
An SSL certificate is a digital security measure that encrypts data exchanged between a website and its visitors while also verifying the site’s authenticity. You can easily identify a site with an SSL certificate by looking at its URL:
– With SSL: https://
– Without SSL: http://
Search engines and web browsers now expect websites to have SSL protection. Sites without SSL certificates often display security warnings, discouraging visitors from proceeding. Additionally, search engines may exclude unsecured sites from search results.
Another lesser-known feature of SSL certificates is their role in fraud protection. SSL providers offer warranties that compensate users in case of financial fraud due to an improperly issued certificate. The warranty amount varies depending on the certificate type.
Since SSL is crucial for security and trust, every successful website today has one.
—
What Do Free SSL Certificates Offer?
The biggest advantage of free SSL certificates is that they are completely free, allowing any website to secure its data without paying. While free SSL certificates are suitable for most websites, there are some limitations to consider.
Certificate Authority
SSL certificates must be issued by a trusted Certificate Authority (CA). The most widely used free SSL provider is PLACEHOLDERaf179f65b80b4d4f, which is maintained by the Internet Security Research Group (ISRG). Many web hosting providers, such as PLACEHOLDER609cf2e9b397bdea, offer automatic Let’s Encrypt installations for customers.
Validation Level
SSL certificates come in three validation levels:
1. Domain Validation (DV) SSL – Confirms domain ownership (available for free).
2. Organization Validation (OV) SSL – Confirms business legitimacy (paid).
3. Extended Validation (EV) SSL – Requires a thorough verification process (paid).
Free SSL certificates only provide Domain Validation, which is sufficient for most websites but lacks the additional verification needed for businesses handling sensitive transactions.
Trust Seal
Some SSL providers offer a trust seal, a small badge displayed on a website to indicate security. Free SSL certificates, like Let’s Encrypt, do not provide a trust seal. However, the “https://” in the URL is generally considered sufficient proof of security.
Warranty
Paid SSL certificates often include a warranty that compensates users in case of fraud due to an SSL misissuance. Free SSL certificates do not offer any warranty.
Support
Free SSL providers typically do not offer direct customer support. However, many web hosting companies provide assistance with SSL installation, making it easier for users to set up and maintain their certificates.
—
What Do Paid SSL Certificates Offer?
Paid SSL certificates come in various plans, usually requiring an annual subscription. The cost depends on factors such as the level of validation, warranty amount, and additional security features.
Certificate Authority
Paid SSL certificates are issued by well-established Certificate Authorities such as Sectigo, which is trusted by major businesses worldwide.
Validation Levels
Paid SSL certificates offer all three validation levels:
– Domain Validation (DV) – Confirms domain ownership (same as free SSL).
– Organization Validation (OV) – Verifies business legitimacy (takes about 3 days).
– Extended Validation (EV) – Requires manual verification by a specialist (takes up to 5 days).
For businesses handling financial transactions, OV or EV SSL certificates provide additional trust and legitimacy.
Trust Seal
Most paid SSL certificates include a trust seal that can be displayed on the website, often in the footer or checkout pages. This helps reassure customers that their data is secure.
Warranty
Paid SSL certificates come with warranties ranging from $10,000 to $2,000,000, depending on the plan. If a certificate is issued incorrectly and results in financial loss for users, the warranty ensures compensation.
Support
Unlike free SSL certificates, paid options include customer support. This can be crucial for troubleshooting SSL-related issues, such as installation errors or security warnings.
—
Free vs. Paid SSL: Which One Is Best?
Objectively, paid SSL certificates offer more features and security benefits than free ones. However, for most websites, a free SSL certificate from Let’s Encrypt is sufficient.
Who Should Use Free SSL?
– Personal blogs
– Small informational websites
– Non-eCommerce sites
