Buy SSL Certificate: A Complete Guide to Securing Your Website
In today’s digital world, website security is non-negotiable. If you run a website, especially one that handles sensitive data like login credentials or payment information, you must buy SSL certificate to encrypt data and protect users.
Google and other search engines prioritize HTTPS-secured websites, meaning an SSL certificate also boosts your SEO rankings. But with so many options available, how do you choose the right one?
This guide will help you understand SSL certificates, their benefits, where to buy them, and how to install them correctly.
2. What is an SSL Certificate?
An SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) certificate is a digital certificate that encrypts data transmitted between a user’s browser and a website’s server. It ensures that sensitive information (credit card details, passwords, etc.) remains private and secure.
When a website has an SSL certificate:
- The URL shows “HTTPS” instead of “HTTP.”
- A padlock icon appears in the browser’s address bar.
- Users see a “Secure” label, increasing trust.
Without SSL, data can be intercepted by hackers, leading to breaches and loss of customer trust.
3. Why Should You Buy an SSL Certificate?
Here are the top reasons to buy SSL certificate for your website:
a) Data Encryption
SSL encrypts all data exchanged between the user and server, preventing hackers from stealing sensitive information.
b) Boosts SEO Rankings
Google favors HTTPS websites, meaning an SSL certificate can improve your search engine rankings.
c) Builds Customer Trust
Visitors see the padlock icon and “Secure” label, increasing credibility and reducing bounce rates.
d) Required for Online Payments
If you run an eCommerce site, PCI DSS compliance mandates an SSL certificate for processing payments securely.
e) Prevents Phishing Attacks
SSL helps verify website authenticity, reducing the risk of phishing scams.
4. Types of SSL Certificates
Before you buy SSL certificate, understand the different types available:
a) Domain Validated (DV) SSL
- Quick issuance (minutes to hours).
- Basic encryption, ideal for blogs and small websites.
- No business verification required.
b) Organization Validated (OV) SSL
- Requires business verification.
- Displays company details in the certificate.
- Best for business websites and enterprises.
c) Extended Validation (EV) SSL
- Highest level of trust (shows a green address bar).
- Rigorous verification process.
- Used by banks, financial institutions, and large eCommerce sites.
d) Wildcard SSL Certificate
- Secures main domain + all subdomains (e.g., example.com, blog.example.com).
- Cost-effective for businesses with multiple subdomains.
e) Multi-Domain SSL Certificate (SAN SSL)
- Protects multiple domains under one certificate.
- Ideal for businesses managing several websites.
5. How to Choose the Right SSL Certificate
When you buy SSL certificate, consider:
✅ Website Type – Blog (DV), Business (OV), eCommerce (EV).
✅ Number of Domains/Subdomains – Single domain, wildcard, or multi-domain.
✅ Validation Level Needed – DV (basic), OV (medium), EV (high).
✅ Budget – Prices range from $10/year to $500+/year.
✅ Warranty & Support – Some providers offer malware scanning and customer support.
6. Where to Buy SSL Certificate?
Top SSL Certificate Providers
Provider | Starting Price | Best For |
---|---|---|
DigiCert | $200/year | Enterprise & EV SSL |
Sectigo (Comodo) | $10/year | Affordable SSL |
GoDaddy | $70/year | Business & Wildcard SSL |
GlobalSign | $150/year | High-security websites |
Let’s Encrypt | Free | Basic encryption (DV only) |
Where to Buy SSL Certificate Cheaply?
- Namecheap – Budget-friendly options.
- SSLs.com – Discounts on multi-year plans.
- RapidSSL – Low-cost certificates with quick issuance.
7. Steps to Install an SSL Certificate
Once you buy SSL certificate, follow these steps:
- Generate CSR (Certificate Signing Request) from your hosting panel.
- Submit CSR to the SSL provider.
- Verify Domain Ownership (via email or DNS).
- Download SSL Certificate files.
- Install on Your Server (cPanel, Apache, Nginx).
- Force HTTPS (update .htaccess file).
8. Common SSL Certificate Errors & Fixes
- “SSL Not Secure” Warning – Ensure the certificate is properly installed.
- Mixed Content Error – Fix HTTP links in HTTPS pages.
- Expired SSL Certificate – Renew before expiry.
- Mismatched Domain Error – Reissue the certificate for the correct domain.
9. FAQs About Buying SSL Certificates
Q1. Can I get a free SSL certificate?
Yes, Let’s Encrypt offers free DV SSL, but it lacks warranty and business validation.
Q2. How long does it take to get an SSL certificate?
- DV SSL: Minutes to hours.
- OV SSL: 1-3 days.
- EV SSL: 3-7 days.
Q3. Do I need an SSL certificate for SEO?
Yes! Google ranks HTTPS websites higher than HTTP.
Q4. Can I transfer an SSL certificate to another host?
Yes, but you may need to reissue it depending on the provider.
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10. Conclusion
If you want a secure, trustworthy, and SEO-friendly website, you must buy SSL certificate. Whether you need a basic DV SSL or an advanced EV SSL, choosing the right provider ensures maximum security and customer confidence.
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