In the age of online transactions and personal data sharing, website security is crucial. One important aspect of website security is having an SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) certificate, which encrypts the communication between a user’s browser and the website.
A good SSL certificate is an investment for the security of your website and the protection of your customers’ information. However, not all SSL certificates are created equal, and the prices can range from a few dollars to hundreds of dollars per year. In this article, we’ll take a look at the best cheap SSL certificates, so you can find one that fits your budget and security needs.
What is an SSL Certificate and Why Do You Need One?
An SSL certificate is a digital certificate that verifies the authenticity of a website and creates an encrypted connection between the website and the user’s browser. This encrypted connection ensures that any information transmitted between the website and the user, such as personal information or credit card numbers, is protected from hackers and eavesdropping.
Having an SSL certificate is important for several reasons:
- Boosts Website Trust: An SSL certificate displayed in a website’s URL bar gives visitors a sense of security and reassurance that their information is being transmitted securely.
- Improves SEO: Google considers SSL certificates a ranking factor in its search engine results, meaning that having an SSL certificate can improve your website’s SEO and increase visibility.
- Protects Customer Information: An SSL certificate provides an added layer of security for sensitive information such as personal information and credit card numbers, which protects both the customers and the website owner from potential security breaches.
The Best Cheap SSL Certificates
Here are five of the best cheap SSL certificates available today:
| Provider | Price per Year |
|---|---|
| SSLS.com | Starting at $7.29 5 Year Plan@ $3.75 /year |
| SSL2Buy | Starting at $7.99 5 Year Plan@ $7.99 /year |
| Namecheap | Starting at $8.88 5 Year Plan@ $5.99 /year |
| RapidSSL | Starting at $9.99 5 Year Plan@ $7.61 /year |
| Certera SSL | Starting at $9.99 5 Year Plan@ $2.99 /year |
How to Choose the Right SSL Certificate
When choosing an SSL certificate, there are a few key factors to consider:
- Validation Level: There are three validation levels for SSL certificates: domain validation (DV), organization validation (OV), and extended validation (EV). Domain validation is the most basic level of validation and only requires that you prove that you own the domain that you’re securing. Organization validation requires that you provide more information about your company and the certificate authority verifies this information. Extended validation is the highest level of validation and requires the most information about your company, but also provides the highest level of security.
- Encryption Strength: The encryption strength of an SSL certificate is measured in bits. The higher the number of bits, the stronger the encryption. A minimum of 128-bit encryption is recommended, but many cheap SSL certificates now offer 256-bit encryption.
- Warranty: Some SSL certificates come with a warranty, which is essentially insurance against losses if the certificate fails to perform as expected. If you’re collecting sensitive information on your website, it’s a good idea to choose an SSL certificate with a warranty.
- Price: Of course, price is an important consideration when choosing a cheap SSL certificate. You want to find the best balance between price and features.
FAQs:
Q: What is an SSL certificate and why do I need one for my website?
A: An SSL certificate, or Secure Sockets Layer, is a digital certificate that encrypts the data transmitted between a website and its users to ensure secure online transactions. Having an SSL certificate is important for the protection of sensitive information, such as personal and financial data, and for the credibility of your website.
Q: What is a cheap SSL certificate?
A: A cheap SSL certificate is an affordable version of the SSL certificate that provides the same security and encryption for your website as a more expensive certificate. There are various options available in the market, so it is essential to compare the features and prices before making a decision.
Q: Can I get a free SSL certificate?
A: Yes, there are free SSL certificates available, but they may not provide the same level of security and reliability as a paid certificate. In addition, free certificates often come with certain limitations, such as a shorter validity period, limited customer support, and limited warranty.
Q: How do I choose the best cheap SSL certificate for my website?
A: To choose the best cheap SSL certificate, you should consider factors such as the level of encryption, the validity period, the level of customer support, the warranty, and the reputation of the certificate authority. You should also compare the prices and features of different certificates to ensure that you get the best value for your money.
Conclusion:
Having a secure website is essential for the protection of sensitive information and for the credibility of your online presence. A cheap SSL certificate is a cost-effective solution for securing your website, providing the same encryption and security as more expensive certificates. With a wide range of options available, it is crucial to compare prices, features, and the reputation of the certificate authority to find the best certificate for your needs. By following the guidelines and comparing the options provided in this article, you can find the smart way to secure your website with a cheap SSL certificate.
