Free Vs. Paid SSL Certificates – What Should You Prefer?
SSL certificates are necessary to encrypt data between sites and users. It specifically secures the details of financial data and transactions. SSL certificates are often a part of the hosting plans and service providers offer the free versions to optimize the security of the site. However, free SSL certificates are not the only option and you can also opt for a paid version.
Choosing between free and paid SSL certificates can prove a tough ordeal. You might want to save the budget and choose the free version. However, you need to focus more on the features they offer to make a reliable choice. You can consider the defining factor and choose the right pick for your setup.
Scroll down into the details of this article to learn and explore what you should prefer between free and paid SSL certificates and choose the right option for your setup.
Top 5 Factors to Pick Free or Paid SSL Certificates
Free and paid SSL certificates are the two most common options for site owners. A lot of them prefer the free version without knowing the ins and outs and face the positive and negative outcomes. The same is the case with paid ones, as the paid versions are not always the best option. It is necessary to compare a few defining factors and decide your pick carefully.
Here are some of the most notable factors you can consider to pick between free and paid SSL certificates.
1. Installation
Installation is the foremost factor you can consider to choose between free and paid SSL certificates. Free certificates are easy to source and can be installed immediately. On the other hand, in the case of paid certificates, you will have to go through the required process for sourcing, which may take some time.
Once you have accessed the certificates, you may follow the directions and install them to secure the intended functions or benefits. Paid SSL certificates often prove a hasslesome and lengthy process, due to which site owners prefer the free versions. Most authorities choose WordPress hosting solutions UAE and enjoy free SSL certificates as a part of the overall hosting plan and enjoy smooth and secure site functioning.
2. Validation
Validation is the next factor to consider while choosing between free and paid SSL certificates. Free certificates only have a basic level of validation in which they only validate the domain of the owners. In other words, domain validation highlights that the user owns the domain on which the certificate is installed.
On the other hand, paid certificates are available with different types of validation which include organization validation, extended validation, wildcard, etc. These types of validations certify the legitimacy of an organization while displaying its name in the address bar of the browser. So, paid SSL certificates strengthen the trust of site users and boost the credibility of the site.
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3. Warranty
Warranty is the next crucial factor you should consider while choosing between free and paid SSL certificates. Warranty is the promised financial compensation the SSL certificate issuer will provide in case of a security breach due to the certificate.
Free SSL certificates usually offer little to no warranty at all, so be prepared to deal with the risks. On the other hand, paid SSL certificates come with significant financial protection in terms of warranty. In case the paid SSL certificate fails to deliver the promised protection and security, you can claim for warranty and deal with the issues smoothly.
4. Renewal
The renewal period is another notable factor you can consider to choose between free and paid SSL certificates. Free certificates usually come with a validity of one to three months, so you must renew the certificate at most three months later.
On the contrary, paid SSL certificates have a validity of one year, so you do not need to renew it before that. Previously, paid SSL certificates used to have a validity of three years, which has been brought down to a year due to security and other reasons. If you do not want to be occupied with renewal concerns all the time, paid certificates are a feasible option for you.
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5. Encryption Strength
Encryption strength is the last factor to consider to choose between free and paid SSL certificates. The degree of encryption or the strength they offer significantly impacts the quality of the service. Both free and paid certificates do not usually have a big difference in encryption strength.
However, free certificates have fewer features than paid ones which may have an impact on strength. Apart from that, the choice of provider can also have an impact on encryption strength as they can offer more reliable features. You can consult HostingMENA and ask experts for the best-suited SSL certificates for your setup.
Free or Paid SSL Certificate – What is Your Pick?
Now that you are aware of the factors affecting free and paid SSL certificates, you can make the right choice for your setup. Feel free to consult hosting service providers and follow the recommendations to enjoy the best outcomes.