If you’re planning to launch a new website or thinking about tightening up the security on your current one, one of the first questions that likely comes to mind is: How much will it cost to secure my website? It’s a valid question and an important one. With cyber threats evolving and users becoming more cautious about the websites they trust, website security is no longer optional. And at the core of that security is something called SSL (Secure Sockets Layer). But how much should you budget for an SSL certificate? What’s the real difference between free and paid SSL certificates? And more importantly, how do you choose the right one for your website?
In this guide, we’ll take a deep dive into everything you need to know about SSL certificate pricing, including what affects the cost, what features to look out for, and how to make the best decision for your site and your users.
What Is an SSL Certificate, and Why Does It Matter?
SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) is a security protocol that encrypts data exchanged between a user’s web browser and a website. In simple terms, it creates a secure, private connection, protecting sensitive information like passwords, credit card details, personal data, and login credentials from being intercepted.
When a website has SSL enabled, you’ll see a padlock icon in the browser’s address bar and the URL will begin with “https://” instead of just “http://”. That small “s” stands for secure, and it sends a strong message to your visitors: this website is safe to use.
But there’s more to SSL than just encryption. SSL certificates also serve as a digital ID, verifying that your website is legitimate. They’re issued by trusted Certificate Authorities (CAs) after confirming the identity of the website owner. This process ensures users aren’t being tricked by phishing sites or impersonators.
In short, an SSL certificate not only protects data, it builds trust, boosts SEO rankings, and enhances your brand’s credibility.
Free vs. Paid SSL Certificate: What’s the Real Difference?
There are both free and paid SSL certificates available, but which one should you choose?
Free SSL Certificate
Free SSL options, like those offered by Let’s Encrypt, are great for personal blogs, hobby sites, or early-stage startups on a tight budget. They provide basic encryption and are valid for a short period (typically 90 days), requiring frequent renewals. They also usually offer limited support and may lack advanced validation features.
Paid SSL Certificate
Paid SSL certificates come with extra layers of protection, customer support, and extended validation. They’re ideal for business websites, eCommerce stores, membership platforms, and any site handling financial or sensitive customer data. Some benefits include:
- Extended validation (EV) and organization validation (OV)
- Warranty protection against data breaches
- Wildcard and multi-domain support
- Professional installation and technical support
- Longer validity periods and easier renewals
How Much Does an SSL Certificate Cost? A Complete Breakdown by Type and Validation Level
When it comes to securing your website in 2025, one of the first questions you might have is: How much does an SSL certificate actually cost?
The short answer: anywhere from $0 to over $400 per year, depending on the type of certificate, its validation level, and how many domains or subdomains you want to secure. Let’s break it all down so you can make the most informed choice for your website’s needs.
Key Factors That Affect SSL Certificate Pricing
There are two major elements that determine the cost of an SSL certificate:
- The type of certificate – based on how many domains or subdomains it secures.
- The level of validation – which determines how thoroughly your website and business are vetted.
SSL Certificate Cost by Type
Different SSL certificates serve different purposes. Whether you’re running a personal blog or managing a complex network of sites, choosing the right type of SSL affects both your protection level and your budget.
Here’s a 2025 pricing guide based on SSL certificate type:
| Type of SSL Certificate | Best For | Estimated Cost (USD/year) |
| Single Domain SSL | Secures one primary domain only | $3 – $20 |
| Wildcard SSL | Secures a domain and all its subdomains (e.g., blog.site.com, shop.site.com) | $40 – $180 |
| Multi-Domain SSL (SAN) | Secures multiple unrelated domains (e.g., site1.com, site2.net) | $20 – $90 |
| Multi-Domain Wildcard SSL | Secures multiple domains and all their subdomains | $90 – $400+ |
- Single Domain SSL: The most budget-friendly option, ideal for personal websites or single-site businesses.
- Wildcard SSL: Great for growing businesses with multiple subdomains under one main domain.
- Multi-Domain SSL: Ideal for agencies or enterprises managing several distinct websites.
- Multi-Domain Wildcard SSL: Best for large organizations with complex domain structures across multiple brands.
SSL Certificate Pricing by Validation Level
The second key factor that impacts pricing is the validation level, which refers to the degree of background checks performed before the SSL certificate is issued. The higher the validation, the more trust it provides to your users.
Here’s a breakdown of typical SSL certificate prices by validation level in 2025:
| Validation Level | What It Verifies | Estimated Cost (USD/year) |
| Domain Validation (DV) | Confirms control of the domain name only | $0 – $25 |
| Organization Validation (OV) | Confirms domain plus verified organization details | $30 – $100 |
| Extended Validation (EV) | Verifies full legal, physical, and operational details | $70 – $180 |
- DV Certificates are fast to issue (within minutes) and are suitable for personal websites, blogs, or non-transactional sites. Free options like Let’s Encrypt are available.
- OV Certificates add legitimacy by verifying your business details and are commonly used by SMBs.
- EV Certificates offer the highest level of trust and are typically chosen by eCommerce platforms, financial institutions, and healthcare providers. These may display the business name in supported browsers and offer more visible credibility.
Is Free SSL Certificate Enough?
In some cases, yes. Free SSL certificates are a great start, especially for personal websites or early-stage projects. They offer the same level of encryption but come with limited support, shorter validity periods, and no warranties.
However, if you’re running a professional business site, collecting customer data, or processing payments, a paid SSL certificate offers better long-term protection and peace of mind. Paid certificates often include:
- Customer support
- Warranty against certificate misuse or failure
- Trust indicators like dynamic site seals
- Better compatibility across platforms and devices
SSL Certificate Cost Comparison: Top Providers & Pricing Breakdown
In today’s digital world, securing your website is more important than ever, especially if your site handles personal, financial, or sensitive customer data. That’s where SSL certificates come in. But how much does an SSL certificate really cost?
The answer depends on the type of certificate, the level of validation, and the provider you choose. Some companies offer free SSL certificates as part of their hosting plans, while others charge hundreds (or even thousands) of dollars per year for advanced enterprise-grade protection.
To help you choose the best solution, here’s a side-by-side comparison of SSL certificate prices from the top 7 providers in 2025.
Let’s dive deeper into what each provider offers, and who it’s best suited for.
1. Bluehost – Best for Beginners
Bluehost includes a free SSL certificate with all hosting plans, making it an excellent choice for beginners or small website owners who want hassle-free security. It’s easy to set up, automatically integrates with your site, and can be upgraded to premium options as your business grows.
Best for: New websites, blogs, and small businesses on a budget.
2. SSL.com – Balanced Security and Extra Services
SSL.com has built a strong reputation over 20 years, offering not only basic SSL but also code signing, document signing, and email certificates. Their entry-level SSL is competitively priced, and their higher-end services suit growing businesses needing added credibility.
Popular plans:
- Basic SSL: $36.75/year
- Code Signing: $64.50/year
- Document Signing: $125.28/year
Best for: SMBs looking for flexible digital security solutions.
3. Comodo SSL Store – Affordable & Versatile
One of the most budget-friendly options on the market, Comodo offers a range of SSL certificates tailored for every kind of website, from personal blogs to eCommerce stores.
Popular plans:
- Positive SSL (DV): $7.95/year
- InstantSSL Premium (OV): $54.09/year
Best for: Cost-conscious website owners needing trusted security and flexible options.
4. GlobalSign – Enterprise-Grade Protection
GlobalSign is a premium certificate authority trusted by large enterprises and high-traffic websites. While their prices are higher, they offer excellent encryption, strong warranties, and extensive verification, ideal for businesses needing strict compliance.
Plans start at:
- DV SSL: $249/year
- EV SSL: $599/year
Best for: Enterprise websites, eCommerce giants, and regulated industries.
5. DigiCert – High-Security Solutions for Corporations
Known for top-tier digital security, DigiCert provides advanced SSL certificates that meet enterprise-grade standards. Their Extended Validation (EV) SSLs are among the most robust and trusted in the industry.
Pricing highlights:
- OV Secure Site: $518/year
- EV Secure Site Pro: $1,849/year
Best for: Large enterprises prioritizing user trust and brand protection.
6. Thawte – Globally Trusted SSL Authority
Thawte delivers global coverage and strong encryption with various validation levels. Its products are widely recognized and used by websites that require high reliability and customer assurance.
Pricing:
- SSL 123 (DV): $168/year
- SSL Web Server with EV: $468/year
Best for: Businesses with global reach and a focus on strong brand validation.
7. SSLs.com – Cheapest SSL Certificates
If you’re looking for ultra-low-cost SSL without compromising on security, SSLs.com is your best bet. They offer some of the most affordable certificates on the market, with fast issuance and helpful support.
Best deals:
- Positive SSL (DV): $3.75/year
- Wildcard SSL: $38.53/year
- Multi-Domain SSL: $16.75/year
Best for: Freelancers, small businesses, and budget-friendly web projects.
What Affects the Cost of an SSL Certificate?
When it comes to choosing the right SSL certificate for your website, cost is a major factor, but it’s not just about the price tag. Understanding what drives SSL pricing can help you find the perfect balance between affordability and the level of security your site truly needs.
Let’s explore the key elements that influence the cost of an SSL certificate in 2025:
1. Type of SSL Certificate
Not all SSL certificates are created equal. The type you choose determines not only how much you’ll pay, but also how much trust and verification your visitors will see.
- Domain Validation (DV): The most basic and affordable option. Great for blogs, portfolios, or non-commercial websites.
- Organization Validation (OV): Includes business verification and appears more credible to visitors. Suitable for small to mid-sized businesses.
- Extended Validation (EV): Offers the highest level of security and trust, often displaying your company name in the browser bar. Ideal for eCommerce, finance, and enterprises.
The more comprehensive the validation, the higher the cost, but also the higher the trust factor for your users.
2. Level of Validation Required
The validation process plays a crucial role in determining both the cost and the time it takes to issue an SSL certificate. Understanding these differences can help you choose the right option based on your website’s needs and the level of trust you want to establish with visitors.
Domain Validation (DV) certificates are the quickest and easiest to obtain. They typically involve only basic domain ownership verification, which can be completed in minutes. As a result, DV certificates are also the most affordable, making them a popular choice for personal websites and small blogs.
In contrast, Organization Validation (OV) and Extended Validation (EV) certificates require more comprehensive verification. This includes confirming your business’s legal status, address, and operational legitimacy. These additional checks can take several days and involve higher costs, but they offer stronger authentication and visible trust indicators, especially in the case of EV certificates.
While DV certificates are cost-effective and sufficient for basic encryption, OV and EV certificates offer enhanced protection and inspire greater customer confidence, particularly for websites handling sensitive information or online transactions. Investing in higher validation levels can significantly improve your site’s credibility and user trust.
3. Number of Domains or Subdomains Secured
When choosing an SSL certificate, one of the key considerations is whether you need to protect just one website or multiple. Understanding your site’s structure will help you select the most cost-effective and efficient option. A Single Domain SSL certificate secures only one website, for example, yoursite.com. This is ideal for simple websites without subdomains.
If your website includes multiple subdomains, such as blog.yoursite.com or shop.yoursite.com, a Wildcard SSL certificate is a smarter choice. It allows you to secure all subdomains under a single main domain with one certificate. For those managing several unrelated domains like yoursite.com, yourstore.net, and yourblog.org, a Multi-Domain SSL (also known as a SAN certificate) provides a streamlined solution by securing them all under one certificate. For even more complex needs, a Multi-Domain Wildcard SSL offers maximum coverage. It secures multiple domains and all their subdomains, making it ideal for large businesses or organizations with extensive web infrastructures.
While these advanced certificates come with higher upfront costs, they often prove more economical in the long run by reducing the need for multiple individual SSLs and simplifying management.
4. Certificate Authority (CA)
The provider or Certificate Authority (CA) you choose matters. Premium CAs offer more than just a certificate. They provide better encryption, support, and warranty coverage.
- Top-tier CAs like DigiCert, GlobalSign, and Sectigo are well-known for reliability and robust security but usually come with premium pricing.
- Budget providers like SSLs.com and Comodo SSL Store offer affordable alternatives that still meet industry standards.
Choosing a trusted CA boosts user confidence and may impact SEO, as search engines often associate well-validated SSLs with trustworthy websites.
5. Warranty and Liability Coverage
Higher-tier SSL certificates often come with warranty protection, which provides financial compensation if the certificate fails and leads to a security breach or data loss. While not a substitute for cybersecurity best practices, this added layer of assurance can be valuable, particularly for businesses that handle sensitive information.
Domain Validation (DV) certificates typically offer limited or no warranty, reflecting their basic level of validation and lower associated risk. In contrast, Organization Validation (OV) and Extended Validation (EV) certificates usually include warranties that range from $10,000 to over $1.5 million, depending on the provider and certificate type.
This warranty coverage doesn’t just protect your business. It also sends a strong message to your customers. It signals that you take security seriously and are backed by a trusted certificate authority, which can enhance your reputation and build confidence among site visitors.
6. Bonus Features & Added Services
Some SSL certificate packages come with value-added features that go beyond basic encryption, offering enhanced security and boosting your website’s credibility. These extras can be especially beneficial for business and eCommerce sites where trust and protection are critical.
One common feature is a dynamic site seal, a visual trust badge that can be displayed on your website to reassure visitors that their data is secure. Unlike static images, dynamic seals often display real-time verification details, adding a layer of transparency.
Daily malware scanning is another useful inclusion, helping detect and alert you to potential threats before they can cause harm. Alongside this, some certificates also provide vulnerability assessments, which scan your site for security weaknesses and offer suggestions for improvement.
Priority support is often bundled with these higher-tier certificates as well, ensuring quicker assistance in case of technical issues or questions about your SSL implementation.
These features are typically found in premium or business-grade SSL certificates, and while they come at a higher cost, they offer added protection and peace of mind, making them a worthwhile investment for many businesses.
How to Choose the Best SSL Certificate for Your Website
With dozens of SSL certificate options available, ranging from free DV certs to premium EV protection, selecting the right one for your website can feel overwhelming. But it doesn’t have to be.
Whether you’re running a personal blog or managing a high-traffic eCommerce site, these expert tips will help you choose the best SSL certificate for your needs, without overspending or compromising security.
1. Understand Your Website’s Purpose
The first step in choosing the right SSL certificate is understanding the nature and purpose of your website. This will help you determine the level of validation and security your site truly needs.
For personal websites or blogs that don’t collect user information, a Domain Validation (DV) certificate is typically sufficient. DV certificates are easy to obtain, often free or very low-cost, and provide the essential encryption needed to secure basic web traffic. They’re ideal for hobby sites, portfolios, or informational pages.
However, if you’re running a business website, especially one that includes contact forms, user logins, or processes payments, you should consider a higher level of validation. Organization Validation (OV) and Extended Validation (EV) certificates offer stronger authentication by verifying your business identity. This not only enhances security but also reassures visitors that your site is legitimate and trustworthy.
As a general rule, if your site handles any form of customer data, it’s best to invest in higher validation. Doing so helps build trust, improves user confidence, and protects both your business and your users from potential threats.
2. Count Your Domains and Subdomains
SSL certificates vary based on the number of domains or subdomains they cover, and selecting the right type can significantly reduce costs and simplify certificate management.
If you’re only securing a single website, such as yourwebsite.com, a Single Domain SSL certificate is the most straightforward and cost-effective option. This is ideal for small businesses or personal sites with no additional subdomains.
For websites with multiple subdomains like store.yourwebsite.com or blog.yourwebsite.com, a Wildcard SSL certificate is a smarter choice. It allows you to secure an unlimited number of subdomains under a single primary domain, offering both flexibility and simplicity.
If you manage several unrelated domains, a Multi-Domain SSL (also known as SAN or Subject Alternative Name certificate) is more appropriate. This type lets you secure different domains such as yourwebsite.com, yourstore.net, and yourblog.org, all under one certificate.
For complex infrastructures involving multiple domains and subdomains, a Multi-Domain Wildcard SSL provides comprehensive coverage. It protects multiple domains and all associated subdomains, making it ideal for large organizations with diverse web properties.
Choosing the right SSL certificate type ensures your websites are efficiently protected while minimizing administrative burdens and renewal complications.
3. Assess Your Security Requirements
Not every website requires the same level of encryption or trust indicators. In general, the type of SSL/TLS certificate you choose should reflect the nature of your site and the sensitivity of the data you handle. For websites that process highly confidential information, such as credit card details, customer records, or healthcare data, an Organization Validated (OV) or Extended Validation (EV) certificate is essential. These certificates involve a more rigorous verification process, ensuring visitors that your organization is legitimate and that their information is protected.
On the other hand, if your site serves primarily as an informational resource and does not solicit user input or transactions, a Domain Validated (DV) certificate may be sufficient. DV certificates offer basic encryption, securing the connection between your server and the visitor’s browser, but they do not provide the additional business verification that OV and EV certificates require.
For eCommerce platforms and other sites where trust is paramount, an EV certificate can be particularly beneficial. EV certificates display prominent visual indicators, such as your company’s name in the browser address bar, reinforcing credibility and helping to assuage any lingering doubts customers might have before completing a purchase. By boosting consumer confidence in this way, EV certificates can play a key role in reducing cart abandonment and improving conversion rates.
4. Set a Clear Budget
SSL certificate pricing can range anywhere from $0 to over $1,800 per year, depending on the type of certificate, included features, and the issuing provider. For startups, personal blogs, or small-scale websites, free SSL solutions such as Let’s Encrypt or certificates included with hosting packages offer a solid starting point. These options provide basic encryption and are generally sufficient for non-commercial use or sites that don’t handle sensitive data.
For small to medium-sized businesses, mid-tier SSL certificates, typically Organization Validated (OV), strike a good balance between affordability and security. These certificates include additional verification steps, which help establish trust with users while remaining reasonably priced.
At the higher end of the spectrum are premium SSL certificates, such as Extended Validation (EV) or multi-domain wildcard options. These come with enhanced features like extended warranties, dynamic trust seals, and priority customer support. They are best suited for enterprises or eCommerce platforms that require a high level of credibility and security across multiple domains or subdomains.
Ultimately, it’s important to understand what you’re paying for. A higher price tag doesn’t always guarantee a better fit for your needs. Assess your site’s requirements and choose a certificate that aligns with both your security goals and budget.
5. Plan for Renewal and Management
SSL certificates are generally valid for 12 months and need to be renewed annually to maintain secure connections and avoid service disruptions. Many hosting providers offer automated renewal processes, which can be especially helpful if you’re managing multiple websites or certificates.
When selecting a provider, it’s important to ensure they offer user-friendly SSL management tools. This becomes crucial when overseeing several certificates, as manual management can become time-consuming and error-prone. Look for features like centralized dashboards, simplified installation, and integration with popular content management systems.
Additionally, keep an eye out for auto-renewal options and expiration alerts. These features help prevent lapses in coverage that could lead to security warnings for visitors. For Organization Validated (OV) and Extended Validation (EV) certificates, be aware that re-validation may be required at the time of renewal. Planning ahead for this step ensures a smooth transition and uninterrupted trust signals for your users.
Final Thoughts: What is the Cost of SSL Certificate?
In today’s digital landscape, securing your website with an SSL certificate is no longer optional; it’s essential. Whether you’re launching a personal blog, managing a growing eCommerce business, or overseeing multiple online properties, establishing a secure connection is key. SSL certificates build trust with your visitors, protect sensitive data, and can even improve your SEO rankings.
The cost of an SSL certificate ranges from $0 to several hundred dollars per year, depending on the type and level of protection you need. However, the value SSL brings, in terms of credibility, customer confidence, and regulatory compliance, is invaluable.
There are various SSL solutions tailored to different needs. A single domain SSL secures one website, while a wildcard SSL protects unlimited subdomains under a single domain. For more complex setups, multi-domain SSL certificates can cover multiple unrelated domains, offering flexibility and comprehensive protection.
With Bluehost, securing your website is seamless and hassle-free. Every hosting plan includes a free SSL certificate, which is automatically installed and managed. And when your site grows beyond the basics, premium SSL upgrades like Wildcard and Extended Validation (EV) certificates are easily accessible with just a click.
Whether you’re a beginner or scaling an online business, Bluehost offers a suite of built-in security features to support your journey. Don’t leave your site vulnerable. Choose a hosting provider that prioritizes security from the start. Start with Bluehost today and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with free, automatic SSL protection included with every plan.
