The concept of free SSL certificates is an interesting one. A free SSL certificate gives a business owner the security of Secure Socket Layers, without the added cost. The purpose of SSL is to provide encryption to guarantee the security of the website it’s installed on, meaning that any sensitive data transferred from the user’s web browser to the business’ web server will be encrypted and indecipherable. The aim of this encryption is to prevent third parties from accessing the information and using it maliciously, which is so easily done these days.
Quality SSL certificates, whether Standard, EV or Wildcard, cost an annual fee and are available from reputable Certificate Authorities, such as Symantec. For between £259 and £1299, you can secure your website with the utmost in SSL features.
Free SSL certificates are available, but because they don’t cost anything, don’t offer the same level of security as the paid-for ones. There are also more downfalls to a free SSL certificate but they can be handy if all the applicant wants it for is to verify their domain name and confirm who they are. However, they certainly aren’t recommended if you need more extensive protection, for example, if you’re expecting to complete online transactions or customer logins.
Free certificates aren’t as trusted by users because they pop-up on the site and you have to click through the pop up to access the site. Even the most honest of businesses will be questioned by a visitor if they have to jump through these hoops to visit the website. The perceived reliability factor is substantially lower and it generally isn’t recommended if you’re aiming to make something of your business.
If you are serious about expanding your business online and want to earn your customers’ trust, consider investing in a paid-for SSL certificate – it will pay for itself in no time.
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