SSL certificate cost can range from free to hundreds of dollars per year because certificates differ in coverage, validation, support and commercial features. The most important question is not “what is the cheapest SSL?” but “what certificate coverage and service level does this website actually need?”
Why can SSL certificates be free?
Free certificate authorities such as Let’s Encrypt issue trusted domain-validated TLS certificates at no cost. These certificates are widely used to enable HTTPS and can be a strong fit when the primary requirement is encrypted traffic.
Why do paid SSL certificates cost more?
Commercial certificate products can differ in validation, brand, warranty, support, management and coverage. Some buyers also prefer a commercial provider because they want a specific validation process or support model.
What affects SSL certificate price?
- Number of hostnames: one domain, multiple domains or many subdomains.
- Validation process: different certificate products use different levels of validation.
- Support and warranty: commercial products can include additional service features.
- Billing term: introductory and renewal prices can differ.
Single-domain SSL cost
A single-domain product is usually the simplest paid certificate option when you only need to protect one hostname or the exact coverage listed by the certificate.
Wildcard SSL cost
Wildcard certificates are designed for a base domain plus eligible subdomains. They can be more economical than buying separate certificates when many subdomains need coverage. Compare current wildcard SSL pricing.
Multi-domain SAN SSL cost
SAN certificates cover multiple specified hostnames in one certificate. This can simplify management for businesses operating several domains or hostnames. Compare the current multi-domain SAN SSL option.
Do not buy SSL twice
Many hosting products already include SSL. Check your hosting plan before purchasing a certificate separately so you do not pay for overlapping coverage.
Compare current SSL certificate prices
Visit our SSL certificate plans and pricing page for the current products, live pricing and checkout terms.
Frequently asked questions
Is free SSL secure?
A properly issued and configured trusted TLS certificate can provide encrypted HTTPS traffic whether it is free or paid. Product differences may exist around validation, support, warranty and coverage.
How much should a small business spend?
First check whether SSL is already included in hosting. If you need a separate commercial certificate, choose the coverage and validation that fit the business rather than paying for features you do not need.
Does a wildcard certificate cover multiple unrelated domains?
No. Wildcard certificates are designed around subdomains of a base domain. Use a SAN/multi-domain product when you need coverage for several different hostnames.