Is There a Best SSL Certificate for WordPress Websites?

Jonesen TeamIndustry Insights

What’s the Best SSL Certificate for WP Sites?

Ever since Google made SSL certificates a mandatory part of SEO, everyday companies have been searching for the right solution. Yet it’s no easy task, especially if web development isn’t your forte. Just understanding what this essential element of security is can be a challenge for many.

So how do you go about choosing the best SSL certificate for your business?

If you’re trying to make heads or tails of web jargon while shopping your options online, this guide is for you. We break down the basics so you can make the right decision for your company.

Types of SSL Certificates

There are many different types of SSL, from free solutions to multi-domain or wildcard SSL certificates. What you need depends upon your website design and the level of security you need.

Below is a quick breakdown of each time without the complicated web developer lingo:

  • Free SSL Certificates: Like the name suggests, these SSL’s are free. However, they only provide the bare minimum in security with no liability coverage
  • Single Domain SSL Certificates: There are 3 single domain SSL options: DV, OV, and EV. The difference between them is the level of security they provide
  • Wildcard Domain SSL Certificates: This unique SSL protects single domains with subdomains underneath the same address
  • Multi-Domain SSL Certificates: Most often used by hosting companies and large corporations, multi-domain SSL’s cover several domains under one umbrella certificate

So where does your business fall? It all depends on how big your website is and what kind of activity transpires on it.

The Best SSL Certificate for WordPress Websites

The right SSL for your business will likely fall anywhere between the single domain and multi-domain options. Free SSL’s (not to be confused with SSL’s purchased as part of a hosting bundle) may help you avoid Google’s penalty, but their security is minimal.

With a free SSL, there is no liability protection and little to no support. Implementation is typically manual, which means you’ll have to register and install it yourself. We only recommend them for hobbyists looking to cover a simple website or blog.

Paid certificates, on the other hand, are far more reliable. You can get them either through your hosting provider or a certificate authority.

A DV SSL certificate is the standard choice for freelancers and small businesses. It provides a basic level of encryption to keep your site and its users secure.

An OV certificate provides additional security as well as additional validation for your customers. It’s the middle ground in security. If you’re a mid-to-large business with no e-commerce or sensitive data exchanged on your site, OV is a great option.

If you deal with sensitive information such as payments and personal accounts, an EV SSL works best. This includes banking websites, e-commerce platforms, and other websites that constantly exchange and house user data.

Hosting and Security in One Convenient Package

Hosting and security work best when they’re coupled together through the same service. Cut out the middleman and get the best SSL certificate for your website’s needs as part of your hosting subscription.

We offer several packages based on your business size and needs with all Standard and Pro packs coupled with an SSL certificate as part of your benefits.

Have a question? Contact us today.