Written By
Daren LowUpdated On
May 14, 2024
Choosing web hosting with a free SSL certificate means you get hosting services and an SSL certificate, which protects your data, at no extra cost. The best providers stand out because of their easy integration of SSL alongside other great security features, fast performance, and helpful tech support.
An SSL certificate is vital because it keeps your sensitive data safe from hackers. This is especially important for websites that handle things like online shopping or user registration.
The type of SSL certificate you need depends on your website’s needs. You can choose from options like Domain Validated, Organization Validated, Extended Validation, Wildcard, and Multi-Domain SSL Certificates.
By opting for a hosting provider with a free SSL certificate, you can enjoy enhanced security without the additional cost and hassle of obtaining a certificate separately. We’ve shortlisted the best providers, and are crowning Hostinger as our #1 winning pick.
Top 9 Hosting Services With Free SSL Certificate
1. Hostinger
https://www.hostinger.com/
Hostinger is our top recommendation if you’re looking for an affordable hosting solution that includes a free SSL certificate. Their shared hosting plans offer a cost-effective solution without compromising performance or security, and you even get an unlimited automatic lifetime of Let’s Encrypt SSL certificates for all your websites.
You’ll also enjoy their proprietary, user-friendly control panel (hPanel), localized in 15 languages for easy setting up and managing your website and SSL needs. Their one-click app installer is pretty neat too, allowing you to expand your website’s functionality with over 100 apps effortlessly.
As mentioned earlier, Hostinger is no slouch when it comes to performance. They utilize caching techniques and SSD storage while leveraging cutting-edge technologies like HTTP/3, IPv6, and LiteSpeed servers. This ensures exceptional speed and performance for your website. To top it all off, Hostinger provides custom-built advanced WordPress optimization tools, allowing your WordPress website to truly shine. Access our comprehensive Hostinger review to make an informed decision.
Pros and cons of Hostinger
Pros
- Price-friendly web hosting plans
- Renews at the regular rate with no significant price hike
- Comprehensive security features
- Speed-optimized servers
- Widespread global data center locations
Cons
- No free domain for the lowest plan
- No unlimited storage for all tiers
2. TMDHosting
https://www.tmdhosting.com/
TMDHosting is a web host that hails from Orlando in the United States. All their hosting plans offer robust security features that include unlimited free SSL certificates via Let’s Encrypt. They also include Cloudflare CDN to both protect against Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks and to provide faster content delivery. Imunify360 is also included and this offers proactive defense against malware and common online threats. Their reliability is evidenced by a 99.9% uptime guarantee.
TMDHosting’s shared hosting plans utilize the cPanel control panel to simplify site administration and SSL management. Their Starter Plan comes with 50GB SSD space, a free domain, and unlimited email hosting.
One unique feature is that all of TMDHosting’s shared hosting plans actually utilize secure CloudLinux servers. This means you enjoy the N+1 redundancy and reliability of cloud servers at the cheaper prices of shared hosting. Learn more in our TMDHosting review.
Pros and cons of TMDHosting
Pros
- Free SSL certificates
- Top-tier security with Imunify360 and daily human audits
- Global data center presence
- Free domain and Cloudflare CDN
- Fully managed hosting services
Cons
- Backups not included in the Starter plan
3. SiteGround
https://world.siteground.com/
SiteGround is a name that often comes up in web hosting discussions. With their shared hosting plans, you’ll benefit from Let’s Encrypt Standard and Wildcard SSL, ensuring secure connections for your website. The Standard SSL is even pre-installed for your convenience.
To deliver lightning-fast loading speeds, SiteGround utilizes cutting-edge technologies like NGINX servers powered by their unique SuperCacher technology. This combination optimizes your website’s performance, regardless of whether you’re running a small blog or a resource-intensive online store.
We also appreciate how SiteGround proactively updates their software and implements advanced security solutions to safeguard your website. And, they’ve got a custom web application firewall and AI anti-bot system to boot, further reinforcing their commitment to providing a secure hosting environment for their users. Learn more in our full review of SiteGround.
Pros and cons of SiteGround
Pros
- Value-for-money Plus plan
- Feature-rich plans
- Emphasizes security and performance
- Performance and speed optimization
Cons
- No Asia data center location
- Limited storage for the lowest plan
4. A2 Hosting
https://www.a2hosting.com/
A2 Hosting offers an impressive range of hosting solutions, from shared hosting, VPS, reseller, and email to dedicated hosting. So if you’re into variety, look into A2 Hosting as chances are, you will be satisfied.
Your shared hosting with A2 Hosting includes a free and automated SSL certificate for enhanced security and protection. The SSL certificates are configured automatically for your domains by default, eliminating any hassle or technical complexity.
And, A2 Hosting’s commitment to security doesn’t stop there. Alongside SSL certificates, they implement robust measures like server hardening, continuous scanning, fortified DDoS protection, and regular server-level security patches. These comprehensive security practices ensure that your website remains well-guarded against potential threats.
They’ve got your back when it comes to speed too. Powered by solid-state drives (SSDs), their servers deliver impressive page loading times and enhance overall website performance. A2 Hosting also offers Turbo Servers, harnessing cutting-edge caching mechanisms and fine-tuned server configurations that further optimize the speed and efficiency of your website. Get more information through our A2 Hosting review.
Pros and cons of A2 Hosting
Pros
- Reliable and top-notch performance with blazing speeds
- Praiseworthy customer support from A2 Hosting’s Guru Crew
- Feature-rich and scalable shared hosting plans
- Unlimited transfer for all shared hosting plans
Cons
- Turbo servers at additional cost
- The cheapest plan has no A2 Cloud Backup
5. DreamHost
https://www.dreamhost.com/
DreamHost is a reliable web hosting company that has been around for over two decades. They have earned a solid reputation for their robust infrastructure and commitment to customer satisfaction.
With each hosting plan, DreamHost includes a free SSL certificate, guaranteeing the security of your visitors’ data. More specifically, their Starter and Unlimited shared hosting plans offer Let’s Encrypt SSL certificates with the latter pre-installed.
Apart from free SSLs, DreamHost boasts impressive uptime (we’re talking about a 100% uptime guarantee here!) and page loading speeds thanks to its optimized servers. Navigating your website is also made effortless with the user-friendly DreamHost control panel, which comes highly recommended by WordPress.org.
Lastly, DreamHost takes pride in their 100% in-house support team too. Whether you have questions about setting up your website or need technical support, you can rely on their expertise and dedication to provide you with the assistance you need. Uncover the details of DreamHost with our extensive review.
Pros and cons of DreamHost
Pros
- 100% uptime guarantee
- Knowledgeable customer support
- Scalable shared hosting plans
- Custom-built advanced and easy-to-use panel to manage your hosting
- WordPress-oriented provider
Cons
- Data centers are in the US only
- No built-in cache for all tiers
6. Bluehost
https://www.bluehost.com/
Bluehost offers a winning combination of quality, reliability, and robust security. With their shared hosting plans, you’ll get a free SSL certificate, ensuring your website is well-protected.
But what really sets Bluehost apart is their optimized hosting environment designed specifically to enhance the performance of WordPress websites. Yup, Bluehost is actually one of the few hosts officially endorsed by WordPress, and if you need assistance, you can take advantage of their WordPress Academy too. This resource provides easy-to-follow tutorial videos, allowing you to learn how to build a WordPress site from scratch and grow your online presence.
In addition to their free SSL certificate, Bluehost offers a range of valuable features, including a free domain name, a one-click WordPress installer, and automatic malware scanning. With their reliable hosting services and commitment to security, Bluehost is a trusted and reliable choice for your website. Find out what makes Bluehost stand out in our thorough review.
Pros and cons of Bluehost
Pros
- Affordable shared hosting pricing
- Easy to scale up or down
- WordPress-oriented provider
- Free CDN for the cheapest shared hosting plan
- Free domain for all plans (1st year)
Cons
- Auto renews at the regular rate (significant price hike)
- No unlimited storage for all plans
7. InMotion Hosting
https://www.inmotionhosting.com/
When it comes to reliable web hosting coupled with robust security measures, InMotion Hosting is an absolute standout. Their hosting plans provide excellent performance and include a free 2048-bit encryption SSL certificate for all hosted domains for the life of your plan.
But that’s not all—InMotion Hosting offers a range of hosting solutions to suit websites of any size. Whether you’re starting with shared hosting or need the power of a dedicated server, they have you covered. Plus, they place a strong emphasis on website speed and uptime too, using cutting-edge technologies like NVMe SSD storage and their UltraStack Speed and Performance technology stack for lightning-fast page loading times.
Managing your website is also a breeze with InMotion Hosting’s user-friendly control panel, cPanel. From there, you can create email accounts, install software packages, and ensure the security of your business—all from one convenient dashboard. Learn all about InMotion Hosting through our comprehensive review.
Pros and cons of InMotion Hosting
Pros
- Performance-oriented shared hosting plans
- Feature-rich and easily scalable shared hosting plans
- Varied hosting options, including WordPress and Reseller hosting
- Top-notch commercial security
- The cheapest shared hosting plan includes marketing tools
Cons
- Data centers are in the US only
- The cheapest shared hosting plan has no UltraStack Speed and Performance
8. IONOS
https://www.ionos.com/
IONOS ensures reliable encryption and secure connections by utilizing industry-standard SSL certificates. With each plan, you receive a free Wildcard SSL certificate, offering protection for your domain and up to 10,000 subdomains.
And if that’s not enough, IONOS also provides malware protection through Site Scan, which checks your web pages and safeguards against threats and vulnerabilities. Their hosting plans include DDoS protection to defend against malicious attacks too.
But IONOS doesn’t stop at security; they also prioritize optimizing your hosting experience. With CDN (Content Delivery Network), you can enjoy super-fast page loading speeds. Their web servers run on the HTTP/2 network protocol, featuring multiplexing and header compression for SSL-encrypted traffic to further enhance performance and efficiency. Explore the official website of IONOS and gain valuable insights.
Pros and cons of IONOS
Pros
- Value-for-money Plus plan
- Feature-rich plans
- Emphasizes security and performance
- Performance and speed optimization
Cons
- No Asia data center location
- Limited storage for the lowest plan
9. iPage
https://www.ipage.com/
iPage is a web hosting provider that focuses on simplicity and affordability without compromising on essential features.
The SSL certificate provided by iPage enables encrypted communication, establishing trust and confidence among your website visitors. Also, iPage prides itself on its user-friendly approach, providing a foundation control panel and a free website builder that requires no coding knowledge.
To add to that, iPage offers unlimited websites, disk space, bandwidth, domain names, and scalable bandwidth, giving you the flexibility and resources to grow your online presence. All in all, iPage is a fantastic option for individuals and small businesses looking for a hassle-free hosting solution that prioritizes security. Dive deep into iPage’s official website to learn more.
Pros and cons of iPage
Pros
- Straightforward one shared hosting plan
- Feature-rich shared hosting plan
- Website builder included
- Comprehensive designing and building tools
Cons
- Limited server location (in the US only)
- Mixed reviews on performance
What is an SSL certificate?
An SSL certificate is a digital document that authenticates the identity of a website. It enables encrypted communication between a web browser and the server. SSL certificates also allow users to securely transfer data, such as personal information, payment details, or login credentials. They ensure that sensitive information remains inaccessible to malicious actors and eavesdroppers. This security measure is crucial for building trust with visitors. A website with an SSL certificate is signified by a padlock icon or the “https://” prefix in the web address.
How does my website benefit from having an SSL certificate?
Your website benefits from having an SSL certificate in 3 key ways:
- Security SSL certificates secure and protect your website data. Sites like banks need this protection for login details, and eCommerce stores need it for payment information. You can ensure that these sensitive data transfers are properly shielded from malicious actors by utilizing an SSL.
- Trust factor SSL certificates boost your website’s trust factor. Visitors see the “https” and a padlock icon in the website’s URL and this signals a secure site. This trust encourages more user interactions and purchases.
- SEO benefits SSL certificates also give you SEO benefits and help with search engine ranking. Search engines, like Google, prefer secure sites. Your website can achieve a better position in search results with an SSL.
What type of SSL certificate does my website need?
The type of SSL certificate your website needs depends on your specific requirements and the nature of your website. Here are 5 common types of SSL certificates that are often needed:
- Domain Validated (DV) SSL Certificate A DV SSL is the most basic type of SSL certificate. It simply verifies that the domain name is registered and someone with admin rights is aware of the certificate request. It’s suitable for blogs and personal websites that don’t handle sensitive data. Notably, all free SSL certificates fall under this category.
- Organization Validated (OV) SSL Certificate A OV SSL certificate offers more security than DV. The Certificate Authority verifies the domain ownership along with various organization details like physical location, legal existence, and operational status. Websites like non-profit platforms, educational institutions, and mid-sized businesses should consider this certificate. This is because they seek to establish a good level of trust with their visitors.
- Extended Validation (EV) SSL Certificate A EV SSL certificate offers the highest level of validation. The Certificate Authority will carry out thorough checks on the organization to verify its authenticity, operational history, and legal status. It’s the top choice for websites that handle sensitive data. Examples include banking portals, eCommerce sites, and medical records platforms, as it offers users a clear signal that the site is highly secure.
- Wildcard SSL Certificate A Wildcard SSL is ideal for websites that have multiple subdomains. Instead of getting a separate SSL certificate for each subdomain, a Wildcard SSL certificate will cover all of them. This certificate is your best bet if you have a main site and various subdomains like shop.yoursite.com or blog.yoursite.com.
- Multi-Domain (SAN) SSL Certificate A Multi-Domain SSL certificate is another solid choice for those running multiple websites or platforms. It allows you to secure multiple domain names under a single certificate. This simplifies the management of SSL certificates if you have a range of sites, such as a main business site, a personal blog, and a shop platform.
To make the best decision, consider the level of security and validation required for your website, the number of domains or subdomains you need to secure, and your budget. It’s also a good idea to consult with your web hosting provider or a trusted SSL certificate authority for guidance based on your specific needs.
Are paid SSL certificates more secure than free SSL certificates?
No, paid SSL certificates are not inherently more secure than free ones. Both free and paid SSL certificates offer the same level of encryption for websites. The distinction between them typically lies in additional features, warranty levels, or the validation process, but when it comes to encryption, both types are equally effective. Regardless of whether you choose a free or paid certificate, the security provided in terms of encryption remains consistent.
How long are free SSL certificates valid for?
Free SSL certificates are valid for 90 days long, after which they need to be renewed to keep your website protected. This is a shorter validity period compared to many paid SSL certificates but the renewal process is usually straightforward. Many hosting providers even offer renewal services for free certificates.
Can web hosts renew my free SSL certificates automatically?
Yes, there are web hosts that can renew your free SSL certificates automatically. They offer this service free of charge and will continue to do so indefinitely until the termination of the web hosting plan. This ensures that your website remains secure without you having to manually renew the certificate every few months.
Do I get free SSL certificates from free web hosting?
Yes, you do get free SSL certificates from some free web hosting providers. These providers include SSL certificates as a part of their service to ensure their users’ websites have a basic level of security. However, it’s always a good idea to check the specifics of what a free hosting package includes before signing up.
Where else can I get free SSL certificates?
You can get free SSL certificates from various SSL certificate providers. The 4 below are recommended:
- Cloudflare Cloudflare is a content delivery network that also secures web traffic through free SSL encryption.
- Let’s Encrypt Let’s Encrypt is a non-profit initiative that ensures broad website security by providing an automated and open certificate authority.
- SSL For Free The SSL For Free platform uses Let’s Encrypt’s infrastructure to offer no-cost certificates for website owners.
- ZeroSSL ZeroSSL delivers both free and premium SSL certificates along with tools for easy certificate management.
Which is the best free SSL hosting provider?
The best free SSL hosting provider offers seamless SSL integration, excellent site performance, and robust security features. When you evaluate hosting providers you should consider factors like reliability, scalability, ease of use, and a history of consistent uptime.
The top 9 free SSL hosting providers are:
| Features | Hostinger | TMDHosting | SiteGround | A2 Hosting | DreamHost | Bluehost | InMotion | IONOS | iPage |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Plan | Premium | Starter | StartUp | STARTUP | Shared Unlimited | Basic | Core | Plus | Basic |
SSD storage | 100 GB | 50 GB | 10 GB | 100 GB | Unlimited | 10 GB | 100 GB | Unlimited | 10 GB |
Bandwidth | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unmetered | Unmetered | Unmetered | Unmetered | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unmetered |
SSL certificate | Let’s Encrypt | Let’s Encrypt | Let’s Encrypt | Let’s Encrypt | Let’s Encrypt | Let’s Encrypt | 2048-bit encryption | Wildcard | Let’s Encrypt |
Free domain name | Yes | Yes | No | No | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | Yes |
Free website builder | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Price /mo | $2.59 | $2.99 | $3.99 | $2.99 | $2.95 | $2.95 | $2.49 | $1.00 | $2.95 |
See all features |
Our number one pick is Hostinger for its comprehensive offerings. However, the best choice for you ultimately depends on your individual website needs and goals. Ensure you pick a provider that is experienced in online security and dedicated to maintaining a safe environment for its users.