The Benefits of Using a Wildcard SSL Certificate

In today’s digital landscape, website security is of paramount importance. With cyber threats rising, protecting sensitive data and ensuring secure communication between websites and users has become a top priority for businesses and website owners. An SSL certificate is an essential tool for enhancing website security. SSL encrypts data transmitted between a website and its visitors. Among the different types of SSL certificates available, a wildcard SSL certificate offers unique advantages. It is an excellent choice for businesses with multiple subdomains or complex websites. 

This blog post will explore the benefits of using a wildcard SSL certificate.

What is a Wildcard SSL Certificate?

A wildcard SSL certificate is a type of SSL certificate that secures a domain and all of its subdomains. It uses a wildcard character () in the domain name field to secure multiple subdomains under the same domain with just one certificate. For example, a wildcard SSL certificate issued for the domain “.example.com” would secure not only “example.com” but also any subdomains such as “subdomain.example.com”, “secure.example.com”, and “mail.example.com”, among others.

Benefits of Using a Wildcard SSL Certificate

• Cost-Effective: One of the significant advantages of using a wildcard SSL certificate is its cost-effectiveness. Instead of purchasing individual certificates for each subdomain, a wildcard SSL certificate can secure multiple subdomains under the same domain with just one certificate. This type of SSL can result in significant cost savings, especially for websites with many subdomains or complex website structures.
• Simplified Management: Managing SSL certificates for multiple subdomains can be time-consuming and complex. With a wildcard SSL certificate, you can streamline SSL certificate management. You only need to install and manage a single certificate for the entire domain and subdomains. It simplifies the process of certificate installation, renewal, and maintenance, making it more convenient and efficient for website administrators.
• Enhanced Security: Wildcard SSL certificates provide the same level of encryption and security as other SSL certificates. They encrypt data transmitted between the website and its visitors, protecting it from interception or unauthorised access. Securing all subdomains with a single certificate ensures consistent security across the entire domain and its subdomains, reducing the risk of security gaps or vulnerabilities.
• Flexibility and Scalability: Websites evolve, and you may add or remove subdomains as the website grows. You can add new subdomains without purchasing additional certificates. It makes it highly scalable and adaptable to changing website requirements, providing long-term value and convenience.
• Improved SEO: Besides the security benefits, SSL certificates can also impact a website’s search engine optimisation (SEO). Search engines like Google prioritise websites with SSL certificates in their search results. These websites are considered more secure and trustworthy. Using a wildcard SSL certificate to secure all subdomains ensures consistent SSL coverage across the entire domain. This can help boost your website’s SEO rankings and increase its visibility to potential visitors.

Why You Should Buy an SSL Certificate

In today’s digital era, securing websites with SSL certificates is essential to protect sensitive data and build trust with visitors. Wildcard SSL certificates offer distinct advantages in cost-effectiveness, simplified management, enhanced security, flexibility, scalability, and improved SEO. It is a smart option if your website has multiple subdomains or a complex structure. It provides comprehensive security coverage while saving time and resources. 

All websites hosted on DreamIT Host receive a complimentary SSL certificate from Let’s Encrypt — one of the best SSL certificate providers. However, if you have a growing website, we highly recommend investing in a wildcard SSL certificate to safeguard your website. You will also gain peace of mind knowing that you have protected it and its subdomains with robust encryption.

Click here to view DreamIT Host’s SSL Certificate Australia.