Free SSL vs Paid SSL Certificate – Which one to choose?

Are you building a website? One of the most important considerations is the security of your website. When it comes to security, how can we miss mentioning SSL (Secure Sockets Layer)?  It is a certificate that encrypts information between a user’s browser and the website’s server. It also helps in keeping the data secure and private.

There are two main types of SSL- free SSL and paid SSL. But with so many options available, how do you choose between a free SSL and a paid SSL? Read this blog to know the differences between these two types of SSL certificates. This blog will help you make an informed decision. 

What are an SSL certificate and its various types?

free SSL certificate

An SSL certificate is a digital certificate that helps to secure a website and its users’ data. It encrypts the data transmitted between the website and the user’s browser. In short, it establishes a secure and encrypted connection between the website and the user, preventing unauthorized access to the data.

There are several types of SSL certificates available, depending on the level of validation and security required by the website. 

Domain Validated (DV) SSL Certificates:- These certificates provide basic encryption and only verify that the domain name of the website matches the certificate. You can get this SSL at a very affordable price. 

Organization-Validated (OV) SSL Certificates: With this certificate, you get a higher level of security and trust than DV SSL. It verifies the identity of the organization or company behind the website. OV SSL certificates require additional documentation and verification.

Extended Validation (EV) SSL Certificates: It provides the highest level of trust and security. The SSL verifies the legal and physical existence of the organization or company behind the website. EV SSL certificates display a green address bar in the browser, indicating that the website is secure and verified.

Wildcard SSL Certificates: These certificates secure multiple subdomains of a website with a single certificate. 

Multi-Domain SSL Certificates: This certificate secures multiple domains or subdomains with a single certificate. 

How is paid SSL different from free SSL?

Cost

One of the most obvious differences between free and paid SSL certificates is the cost. As the name suggests, free SSL certificates are available at no cost, while paid SSL certificates come with a price tag. 

Validation

Paid SSL certificates come with a higher level of validation. With Paid SSL certificates, you can choose between various types. Each level of validation provides a higher level of trust and authentication for your website visitors.

On the other hand, free SSL certificates typically offer only Domain Validation. That means only the domain ownership is validated. 

Security

When it comes to security, both free and paid SSL certificates provide the same level of encryption. Both types of certificates use the same encryption algorithm. Both of them provide the same level of protection against hacking, phishing, and other cyber attacks.

However, paid SSL certificates come with additional security features. These features include malware scanning, vulnerability assessment, and other security tools that help protect your website from various threats.

Support

Another important factor to consider when choosing between free and paid SSL certificates is support. Paid SSL certificates come with better support options compared to free SSL certificates. 

With paid SSL certificates, you access dedicated support teams who help you with any issues or questions you have. On the other hand, with free SSL certificates, support is limited or non-existent, leaving you to troubleshoot issues on your own.

Why are SSL certificates important?

Free SSL certificates

SSL certificates play a crucial role in website security. In simple terms, an SSL certificate ensures that any information sent between a user’s device and the website’s server is secure and private.

Here are a few reasons why SSL certificates are important:

Protects Data Privacy

An SSL certificate ensures that any data transmitted between a user’s browser and a website’s server is encrypted. It makes nearly impossible for hackers to intercept or steal the data.

Increases Website Trust

A website with an SSL certificate is marked with a padlock icon in the browser address bar. That icon indicates that it’s secure. This gives users the confidence that their data is safe and makes them more likely to trust the website.

Boosts Search Engine Ranking

Search engines, such as Google, consider website security as one of the ranking factors. Having an SSL certificate on your website improves your search engine ranking and drive more traffic to your site.

Enhances Customer Confidence

With an SSL certificate, customers can be assured that the website they are using is legitimate and trustworthy. This can lead to increased sales and conversions.

Protects Against Cyber Attacks

SSL certificates provide protection against cyber attacks, including man-in-the-middle attacks, phishing, and eavesdropping. It safeguards your website from potential security breaches.

Why Max Cloud Host is best for paid SSL?

Max Cloud Host- a web hosting company offers free SSL certificates with every hosting plan. While the free SSL certificate provides basic encryption for your website, we recommend our customers consider purchasing a paid SSL certificate. 

A paid SSL certificate offers more advanced features, such as higher encryption levels, extended validation, and additional security layers. These features provide an additional layer of protection for sensitive data. The additional protection includes data safety for login credentials and credit card information. 

Although a free SSL certificate provides some level of protection, it does not come with the same level of trust and security. A paid SSL certificate helps to increase website trust, boost search engine ranking, and enhance customer confidence.

Moreover, with us, you have the option to purchase a paid SSL certificate separately, in addition to the free SSL certificate. This allows customers to choose the level of security that best suits their needs and budget.

Let’s Conclude

Both free and paid SSL certificates offer advantages and disadvantages depending on your specific needs. If you are on a tight budget or running a small website, a free SSL certificate is a good option for you. However, if you require a higher level of security, validation, and support, a paid SSL certificate is a better choice.

Ultimately, the decision to choose between free and paid SSL certificates depends on the website’s specific requirements and budget. Whichever option you choose, the important thing is to ensure that your website is secure and protected with an SSL certificate.

Also Read: 10 Most Successful Linux Hosting Companies You Can Trust

FAQs: On Free SSL And Paid SSL

What is the cost of a paid SSL certificate at Max Cloud Host?

The cost of a paid SSL certificate varies depending on the level of security and additional features you require. Prices range from a few rupees to hundreds of rupees per year. Contact our team to know the prices.

What is the validation level of a paid SSL certificate?

Our paid SSL certificates offer different levels of validation, including Domain Validated (DV), Organization Validated (OV), and Extended Validation (EV) certificates. Each level of validation provides a higher level of trust and authentication for your website visitors.

What support options are available with a paid SSL certificate?

With our paid SSL certificates, you get access to dedicated support teams who can help you with any issues or questions you may have.


Vaibhav Raju

Vaibhav Raju:- I'm a content writer with 4 years of experience in writing blogs, articles, web pages, social media posts, email copy, and more in multiple niches like travelling, technology, management, finance, digital marketing, health, fitness, and others.

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