Securing your website with an SSL certificate has become an absolute necessity in today‘s digital landscape. Over 90% of web traffic is now transmitted via HTTPS, making an SSL certificate essential not only for security, but even SEO and consumer trust.
But with countless options on the market offering various validation levels, price points, and other features – how do you choose the right SSL certificate provider for your needs? And how can you get set up without breaking the bank?
This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from what an SSL certificate is to specific step-by-step instructions for getting set up with SSLS.com‘s budget-friendly certificates. I‘ll also provide an in-depth comparison of the top 7 best alternatives to consider for even cheaper SSL certificate rates.
Let‘s dive in!
What is an SSL Certificate and Why is it Important?
An SSL certificate is a digital certificate that uses encryption algorithms to authenticate a website‘s identity, secure data transmitted between a browser and server, and ensure that all information passed remains private and integral.
SSL stands for "Secure Sockets Layer" – this refers to the underlying technology that enables encrypted links between a website and browser.
Specifically, installing an SSL certificate activates "HTTPS" and the padlock icon in the browser address bar:
Without an SSL certificate installed, websites remain on the unsecure "HTTP" protocol.
There are several key reasons properly implementing an SSL certificate is critical:
Data Security – SSL encryption protects all data passed between a website and users during sessions. This includes sensitive information like login credentials, personal details, and credit card numbers.
Trust & Consumer Confidence – Over 50% of consumers will abandon a website without HTTPS enabled. The padlock and HTTPS display assurance that privacy is taken seriously.
SEO Ranking Signals – Google has made HTTPS adoption one of its top ranking signals. Websites without SSL certificates already face degraded search visibility.
Regulatory Compliance – Industry regulations like HIPAA and PCI mandate data encryption, satisfied by properly implementing an SSL certificate.
From both consumer expectations and best practices standpoints, installing an SSL certificate is required for any professional website handling user data today.
Next I‘ll explore the different types of SSL certificates available…
SSL Certificate Types Explained
SSL certificates can be broadly categorized based on the level of validation checking required prior to issuance:
Domain Validated (DV) Certificates
This is the most basic SSL certificate type requiring only proof you control the domain in question. No business identity verification is performed. DV validation simply confirms website ownership via methods like creating a dns TXT record or uploading an authorization file. Very fast and affordable, Domain Validated certificates provide ample security for most websites.
Organization Validated (OV) Certificates
OV certificates include all the domain validation checks of DV certificates PLUS verified legal entity identity. This business vetting requires presenting organizational documents. OV certificates clearly display business names boosting user trust. But they come at a higher cost than DV due to more extensive validation requirements.
Extended Validated (EV) Certificates
The highest certificate level involves deepest scrutiny including background checks on entire companies and their principal executives. Very time intensive, EV certificates prominently showcase legitimate legal entity names and inspire maximum user confidence during high value transactions. Their security is redundant for most general sites though while costing 10-20X DV/OV certificates.
In summary, opting for an Organization Validated or Extended Validated SSL certificate really depends on your security needs and presenting detailed corporate identity for heightened credibility. Domain validated certificates sufficiently encrypt connections and activate HTTPS for the majority of websites.
Step-By-Step Guide: How to Get an SSL Certificate from SSLS.com
SSLS.com is one of the web‘s most trusted SSL certificate issuers, relied upon by major institutions like NASA, Xerox, Slack and more. Their simplicity, great support reputation and affordability make SSLS.com a top choice SSL solution.
Let‘s walk through getting set up with an SSLS.com certificate using their streamlined process:
Step 1: Choose Your SSL Certificate Plan
First visit SSLS.com‘s products page and select your preferred certificate type.
For most websites Domain Validated certificates like their DV SSL Single Domain represent the ideal blend of encryption strength, fast issuance and budget friendliness.
Make sure to use any available SSLS.com coupon codes to save on checkout!
Step 2: Create Your SSL.com Account & Confirm Email
Complete SSLS.com‘s checkout process for your chosen certificate plan. Payment can be made via credit card or other convenient methods like PayPal.
Your free SSLS.com account will automatically be created using the email entered at checkout. Make sure to confirm your address via the Account Activation email sent immediately after order completion.
Step 3: Generate and Submit Your CSR
With your SSLS.com account created, next you need to provide information uniquely identifying your server by creating and uploading a CSR (Certificate Signing Request).
You can easily generate a CSR within popular web hosting control panels like cPanel. Alternatively use the openssl command for a self-managed/VPS server.
Once generated, submit this text block CSR within your SSLS.com account under "Signing Requests". Detailed documentation with screenshots is found here: Submitting a CSR to SSLS.com
Step 4: Validate Domain Ownership
Now SSLS.com will verify your control over the domain in question. Simply choose from their convenient validation methods:
- Email Approval – Confirm authorization email sent to confirmed domain addresses
- HTTP File Upload – Upload txt file to root domain folder
- DNS Change – Create TXT record for automated validation
Typically the automated DNS TXT change method is fastest for those with domain registrar access. Otherwise one of the other two manual validation channels works great.
Step 5: Install Your SSL Certificate
Once domain ownership validation completes successfully, SSLS.com will sign your certificate making it available for download within your account dashboard.
You‘ll receive an email notification that your fully signed certificate with root and intermediate chain is issued and ready for installation!
The final step is installing your certificate within your server environment or web host control panel. Most providers make this process very user-friendly with just a few clicks.
And that‘s all there is to it! Revisit SSLS.com‘s extensive knowledge base or reach out to their stellar support for any assistance getting fully secured with HTTPS enabled.
Alternative Cheap SSL Certificates Worth Considering
While SSLS.com certificates achieve unparalleled convenience and value, they aren‘t the only affordable SSL solution. Let‘s explore 7 top alternatives to getting budget-friendly SSL certificate rates for securing your site!
1. ZeroSSL
Founded in 2016, ZeroSSL has skyrocketed to stardom providing users domain validated certificates totally free for the first 90 days. This trial period lets you evaluate their reliability before deciding on renewal.
Some standout ZeroSSL features include:
- $0 free SSL certificate for 90 days (renew from $69/yr after)
- Multi-domain SAN certificates available
- Browser-trusted certificates signed by DigiCert
- Convenient DNS and email validation methods
- Intuitive certificate management dashboard
Boasting some of the lowest rates in the industry after their complimentary 90 day trial, ZeroSSL delivers tremendous value helping you instantly activate HTTPS on a tight budget.
ZeroSSL Pricing
| Product | Validation | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Single Domain | Domain | $69/year |
| Wildcard Certificate | Domain | $149/year |
| Multi-Domain SAN Certificate | Domain | $149+/year |
Browse all ZeroSSL plans at ZeroSSL.com
2. Namecheap SSL
Originally making a name for itself in domain name registration, Namecheap has expanded over the years into hosting, security and beyond. Their SSL certificate issuance platform rivals premium providers in features and support quality.
Namecheap SSL benefits include:
- Affordable domain and organization validated options
- Recognized SSL brand trusted by all browsers
- Well-regarded support reputation
- Convenient one click issuance integrations
- 99.9% browser recognition rate
Namecheap frequently runs promotions slashing already economy bulk purchase rates even lower for multiple year terms. Their affordable pricing, stellar track record and robust management portal make Namecheap SSL certificates a top contender!
Namecheap SSL Certificate Pricing
| Product | Validation | Price |
|---|---|---|
| PositiveSSL Certificate | Domain | $8.88+/year |
| BusinessSSL Certificate | Org/Domain | $49+/year |
| EV SSL Certificate | Extended Validation | $179+/year |
Get the latest Namecheap SSL coupon codes and restrictions at Namecheap.com.
3. The SSL Store
The SSL Store lives up to its namesake as one of the largest SSL providers globally. Representing over 5000 enterprise customers, they resell all widely trusted SSL brands.
The SSL Store adds value beyond competitive rates by offering:
- Lowest Price Guarantees via active price matching
- Partnerships with 100+ web hosts for turnkey installation
- 24/7 exceptional customer support
- Diversified SSL brand options
As an authorized reseller for industry leaders like Symantec, Geotrust and Thawte, The SSL Store simulates a competitive shoping experience with detailed comparisons.
The SSL Store Sample Pricing
| Brand & Product | Validation | Price |
|---|---|---|
| RapidSSL Certificate | Domain | $12.99/year |
| Geotrust True BusinessID | Organization | $79/year |
| Symantec Secure Site EV | Extended Validation | $355/year |
Unlock instant savings buying SSL certificates at TheSSLStore.com using available promo codes.
4. SSL2BUY
Providing budget-friendly SSL certificates to over 2.5 million sites globally, SSL2BUY satisfies advanced encryption needs at bargain rates.
Top merits making SSL2BUY a fan favorite include:
- Domain through Extended Validation certificates
- Superb value across all plan types
- 70% off promotions ran frequently
- Lightning fast issuance process
- Positive customer satisfaction
Whether looking to activate a single domain or secure multiple sites with one umbrella certificate, SSL2BUY fittings business needs with CN©thodox savings.
SSL2BUY Sample Pricing
| Product | Validation | Price |
|---|---|---|
| RapidSSL Certificate | Domain | $9.99+/year |
| GeoTrust True Business ID | Organization | $49.99+/year |
| Geotrust EV Certificate | Extended Validation | $180+/year |
Redeem seasonal deals and flat percentage savings shopping SSL2BUY certificates here: SSL2BUY.com
5. Digicert
Rounding out our list is none other than the world‘s top SSL certificate brand – Digicert. Renowned for their enterprise-grade certificates securing leading sites like Facebook and Uber, Digicert also provides surprisingly reasonable domain validated certificates catering to SMBs.
Advantages of pairing with this industry authority include:
- 99.9% browser recognition guarantee
- Generous warranty coverage up to $1.75 million
- Diverse validation tiers from DV to EV SSL
- Top-rated customer support personnel
- Cloud-based account management portal
Finding a SSL brand carrying as much clout as Digicert at these economy rates makes them an easy favorite.
Digicert SSL Certificate Pricing
| Product | Validation | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Single Domain SSL | Domain | $57+/year |
| Unified Communications Certificate | Organization | $229+/year |
| EV SSL Certificate | Extended Validation | $1059+/year |
View all Digicert SSL pricing with available discounts savings 15%+ here: Digicert.com
FAQs – Common SSL Certificate Questions Answered
Confused between wildcard, SAN, CSRs and other common SSL terminology? Here we break down most frequently asked questions to eliminate ambiguity:
What‘s the difference between Wildcard & SAN/UCC certificates?
Wildcard certificates use an asterisk () to secure unlimited first-level subdomains on a base domain (e.g. .example.com). SAN certificates explicitly list multiple fully qualified domain names under one cert. While wildcard SSLs technically secure more domains, major browsers now limit this advantage through prefix wildcards restrictions. Most modern sites leverage SAN certificates validating multiple domains/sites at an equal or lower cost.
Do I need a dedicated IP address for each SSL Certificate?
Absolutely not – you can host unlimited SSL Certificates on a single IP address. The magic happens during initial SSL handshake using Server Name Indication (SNI) where the visiting browser specifies which hostname to connect with enabling data encryption. That means one server can terminate requests for www.site1.com and then www.site2.com off the same IP simultaneously.
What if my SSL certificate order status shows "Processing"?
Processing means your SSL provider received your certificate signing request and is currently verifying domain ownership plus business details for OV/EV validation types. This processing period usually completes within a few hours up to 1-3 days for Extended Validation certificates. Reach out to support if status remains pending beyond 3 days.
What is an SSL CSR (Certificate Signing Request)?
A CSR is an encoded file used to communicate your server details to the certificate authority for encrypting SSL connection information. You generate a CSR locally then copy paste the contents to the SSL issuer. Each CSR contains your domain details plus public key used to create a uniquely signed SSL certificate tying your site to the matching private key.
What length SSL certificate should I choose?
We recommend standard 1 or 2 year SSL certificate terms for most users striking the ideal balance of affordability and convenience. Shorter 90 day certificates do save money but require more frequent disruptive renewals. Maximum 3 year terms offer the best overall value for a low maintenance security solution. If your budget allows, longer validity terms make administration easiest.
What steps ensure SSL certificate security best practices?
Proper implementation optimizing site protection involves:
- Redirecting all HTTP to HTTPS traffic
- Enabling HSTS headers signaling forced SSL security
- Checking certificate transparency logs
- Choosing trusted certificate brand signatures
- Testing for vulnerabilities with SSL scan tools
Covering those bases hardens site infrastructure, monitors certificate reputation and prepares graceful security incident response.
Conclusion – Securing Sites Affordably with SSL Certificates
Installing an SSL certificate to activate HTTPS remains one of the most fundamental site security steps everybody should complete. Thankfully obtaining trusted SSL encryption certificates no longer means overspending.
Between affordable domain validated certificates from leading providers like SSLS.com plus these top 7 SSL alternatives, website owners gain robust data protection on modest budgets.
At the end of the day, no website transmitting or receiving sensitive information can afford dismissal of proper SSL implementation. Rely on this definitive guide whenever you need a refresher on obtaining budget-friendly website security!
