Glossary
SSL Certificate
A digital security certificate that encrypts data between your website and visitors, enabling the padlock icon and HTTPS in browsers.
SSL Certificate
An SSL certificate (Secure Sockets Layer) is a digital file that authenticates your website's identity and enables encrypted connections between your server and visitors' browsers.
When a site has an SSL certificate, the browser shows:
- A padlock icon in the address bar
- https:// instead of http://
Why You Need One
- Security — Encrypts sensitive data (forms, payments, logins)
- SEO — Google uses HTTPS as a ranking signal
- Trust — Browsers warn users about non-HTTPS sites
- Required for payments — PCI compliance requires HTTPS
SSL Certificate Cost in 2026
| Type | Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Domain Validation (DV) | Free (Let's Encrypt) | Most websites |
| Organization Validation (OV) | $50–$200/year | Business sites |
| Extended Validation (EV) | $100–$400/year | Banks, ecommerce |
| Wildcard SSL | $100–$500/year | Multiple subdomains |
Most websites can use free SSL via Let's Encrypt, which most quality hosting providers configure automatically.
See our Web Hosting Cost Guide to find which hosts include free SSL automatically.
Related Articles
- Web Hosting Cost Guide — which hosting plans include free SSL
- What is a Domain Name? — the other essential for your website
- How Much Does a Website Cost in 2026? — full cost breakdown
- Website Cost Calculator — estimate your project cost