Are you in need of a complimentary SSL certificate for your website? If you’re reading this, chances are you are seeking one. An SSL certificate is becoming more essential for websites, blogs, online stores, and various web applications.
I will demonstrate various methods to obtain a complimentary SSL certificate for your online venture. The process of acquiring SSL is typically straightforward and uncomplicated. Even in more intricate scenarios, you will be informed of alternative approaches to secure an SSL for your own use. 😉
Should we?
Why is an SSL certificate necessary?
To safeguard the data shared between your website and users.
The presence of SSL can improve a website’s search result ranking by providing credibility and preventing browser warnings about insecure sites, which can deter users.
An SSL certificate enables the utilization of the HTTPS protocol, which encrypts data transmission to prevent unauthorized access.
A website using HTTPS can be identified by the address beginning with https://. Browsers show a closed lock icon next to the address bar if the SSL certificate is valid.
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This is a primary reason for utilizing SSL and HTTPS protocol, along with other reasons outlined in the article on SSL Certificates and why your website requires one.
Obtain a complimentary SSL certificate for your website.
The rising popularity of SSL certificates has led to their widespread integration into platforms or provision for free in hosting services, with the method varying depending on the service utilized.
I will outline the primary methods to obtain a complimentary SSL certificate for your website.
Enable the no-cost SSL certificate offered by your platform.
On certain website creation platforms, such as popular ones like Wix and WordPress, the HTTPS protocol is automatically included, so users don’t need to do anything as it is integrated by default.
In certain instances, the platform provides free SSL but requires activation by the user, as seen on Blogger where the blog administrator must enable the feature in the control panel.
Consider switching to a different platform if your current website creator does not provide SSL, as most top website creators now include SSL certificates at no extra cost.
Enable Free SSL on your existing hosting plan.
Many hosts now provide free installation of SSL certificates in addition to site creation platforms. This shift is noteworthy as hosting companies previously only sold SSL certificates. Fortunately, this situation is evolving, benefiting consumers.
Free SSL can often be enabled by the client through the hosting control panel, especially with VPS and dedicated hosting. The client must install the Free SSL using the appropriate method for their hosting environment.
Some companies are hesitant to provide free SSL with all hosting plans due to the revenue generated from selling SSL certificates. Nonetheless, I think it’s inevitable that all companies will eventually provide at least one free SSL option.
Therefore, when you have a website hosted by a company, ensure that it includes a complimentary SSL certificate for your clients and assists with the setup on your site. If you are unsure about the details, reach out to the support team of the company. If a free SSL is not provided, there is an alternative available.
Migrate your website to a hosting provider that offers complimentary SSL.
Many hosting companies are now providing a complimentary SSL option for their clients. If your current hosting provider does not offer this feature for free, it might be beneficial to explore other options available to secure an SSL for your website.
Before making any changes, it is important to review the costs associated with acquiring the resource. SSL certificates are typically sold on an annual renewal basis, so it is advisable to calculate the total investment needed for SSL. By considering the annual hosting fees along with the cost of a paid SSL certificate, assess whether it is worthwhile to maintain this hosting arrangement and continue paying for SSL.
You might find it more cost-effective to switch to a hosting provider that offers free SSL. If you’re concerned about the hosting migration process, there are services available that can make it easier for you. Many companies offer free migration assistance once you’ve signed up for their hosting services.
If you are thinking about becoming a provider, check out our regularly updated ranking of the top website hosting services, which also includes special discounts.
A free SSL might not be the best option in certain circumstances.
Free SSL certificates are a valuable and essential advancement for internet operations, but there are occasions where it may be more suitable to opt for a paid SSL certificate.
There are multiple categories of SSL certificates available for use on the internet.
- Domain Validation (DV) confirms domain ownership and its connection to the server, indicated by a lock icon in the browser bar.
- OV certifies both the domain and the company data that owns the domain.
- Comprehensive certification of the company owning the domain, with the company name shown next to the lock in the browser bar.
Multidomain SSL certificates and wildcard certificates can be used in multiple domains and subdomains, in addition to the types mentioned earlier.
SSL certificates that are free only verify the domain.
Most free SSL certificates are domain validation type, confirming ownership of the domain and its connection to the server, enabling encryption for data exchange and displaying a padlock in the browser bar. Let’s Encrypt is among the most widely used free SSL certificates online, with domain validation being the top choice for 9 out of 10 websites.
A domain validation certificate may not suffice for all requirements, particularly in scenarios like online shopping or banking, where verifying additional information is essential. In such instances, site administrators may need to opt for a more advanced SSL certificate from a specialized certifying authority.
Paid certificates typically provide compensation to the customer if encryption is compromised, serving as a form of assurance. The amount of compensation offered varies based on the type and specifics of the certificate.
In summary
Efforts to enhance information security are varied and backed by major corporations in a more interconnected world. Employing an SSL certificate, enabling the use of the HTTPS browsing protocol, is essential for all business websites.
There are a variety of options available for obtaining a free SSL certificate for your website, including built-in SSL services from platforms like Wix, WordPress.com, and Blogger, as well as free SSL offerings from hosting companies for websites on shared hosting plans.
Consider switching to a hosting service that offers a complimentary SSL certificate if your current platform does not provide one or allow you to install one.
After you have installed the SSL certificate on your website, ensure that all content is delivered through the HTTPS protocol, which might need some modifications. If you are using WordPress, refer to a guide on setting up WordPress to operate on HTTPS.
I trust that I assisted you in obtaining a complimentary SSL certificate for your website. If you encountered any challenges or have inquiries, feel free to comment, and I will be happy to assist you! 😉
Publication date: 04/12/2018 (last modified on 14/06/2019)
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