The cost of an SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) certificate ranges drastically between $0 – $3480 a year. This article identifies the main factors impacting SSL certificate costs particularly SSL certificate type (single domain, multi-domain or wildcard) and the level of validation required (DV, OV, EV). Average annual costs are detailed below.
| SSL Certificate Type | Cost /year |
|---|---|
| Single Domain | $4 to $60 |
| Multi-domain | $60 to $240 |
| Wildcard | $60 yo $96 |
| Domain Validated (DV) | $3 to $36 |
| Organization Validated (OV) | $20 to $1302 |
| Extended Validated (EV) | $96 to $3480 |
This article provides a detailed SSL certificate price comparison and an explanation of the key factors. We also include recommendations of the best places to find cheap and free SSL solutions.
What determines SSL certificate cost?
The cost of an SSL certificate is determined predominantly by the SSL type and the level of validation. The SSL validity duration and the exact certificate authority or brand that issues the SSL also impacts the final price.
SSL certificate cost by type
The cost of a standard SSL certificate ranges depending on which of the 3 types it falls into: single domain SSL, multi-domain SSL or wildcard SSL.
How much is a single domain SSL certificate?
A single domain SSL certificate costs between $4 to $60 annually. A single domain SSL secures one domain and is the simplest and often the cheapest option. It serves the basic necessity of securing the communication between the user and the server.
How much is a multi-domain SSL certificate?
A multi-domain SSL certificate costs between $60 to $240 annually. A multi-domain SSL allows multiple distinct domains to be conveniently secured under one certificate and is ideal for businesses managing several domains. They typically support up to 150 – 250 sites.
How much is a wildcard SSL certificate?
A wildcard SSL certificate costs between $60 to $96 annually. This type of SSL certificate simplifies management and lowers costs by covering all subdomains under one certificate. There’s no need to purchase separate SSLs for each subdomain.
SSL certificate cost by validation level
SSL certificate costs also vary based on the level of validation required. There are 3 levels of validation and these are domain validated (DV), organization validated (OV). and extended validated (EV). This segmentation ensures different security needs are met appropriately.
How much is a domain validated (DV) SSL certificate?
Domain validated (DV) SSL certificates are the cheapest and cost between $3 to $36 annually. They work by using a simple validation process where the certificate authority (CA) verifies that the applicant has control over the domain being secured.
How much is an organization validated (OV) SSL certificate?
Organization validated (OV) SSL certificates cost between $20 to $1302 annually. These require a more detailed validation process than the DV SSL and involve the issuing authority conducting background checks on the organization. They suit commercial sites with bigger budgets who are handling moderate levels of sensitive information.
How much is an extended validated (EV) SSL certificate?
Extended validation (EV) SSL certificates cost between $96 to $3480 annually. EV SSL requires the most extensive (16-point check) level of background checks on the certificate holder’s identity in order to prove their legitimacy. They are therefore the most expensive type of SSL.
Where can I get cheap SSL certificates?
You can get cheap SSL certificates from the website ssl.com. ssl.com offers a range of extremely low-cost SSL solutions ranging between $5 to $40 annually. They are a great option for small budgets although it’s also possible to find SSL certificates completely free of charge.
Where Can I Get Free SSL Certificates?
You can get free SSL certificates from providers like Let’s Encrypt, ZeroSSL, and Cloudflare. The best web hosting services also include complimentary SSL certificates and easy SSL setup as part of their plan offerings.
Which Web Hosts Offer Free SSL Certificates?
Hostinger and SiteGround are two web hosts offering free SSL within all their web hosting plans. They also enable easy setup and integration of SSL via intuitive control panelss.
Are pricier SSL certificates more secure?
No, pricier SSL certificates are not more secure by default in regards to the level of encryption they provide. All reputable SSL certificates provide similar levels of encryption and any higher price is more likely to reflect the level of validation or the brand reputation of the certificate authority. Learn everything about how SSL certificates work in our in-depth guide.