Understanding SSL Certificates at WPCloud
Explaining SSL certificate options at WPCloud, comparing included Let's Encrypt certificates with third-party wildcard SSL alternatives.
Overview
This guide explains the SSL certificate options available at WPCloud, including our free automated certificates and supported alternatives. Learn about the differences between single-domain and wildcard SSL certificates to choose the right option for your website.
SSL Certificate Types
Standard SSL Certificates (Included)
WPCloud provides complimentary SSL certificates for all hosted websites that include:
- Automated Let's Encrypt certificates
- Domain validation (DV) level security
- Automatic installation and renewal
- 90-day validity with automated renewal
- Support for single domains and subdomains
Wildcard SSL Certificates (Third-Party)
While not directly provided by WPCloud, our platform fully supports wildcard SSL certificates:
- Secures main domain and unlimited subdomains
- Must be purchased from third-party providers
- Requires manual installation
- Typically valid for 1-2 years
- Higher cost but broader coverage
Certificate Comparison
Feature | Included SSL | Wildcard SSL |
Cost | Free | Paid (varies by provider) |
Installation | Automatic | Manual |
Renewal | Automatic | Manual |
Domain Coverage | Single domain/subdomain | Main domain + all subdomains |
Validation Type | Domain (DV) | Domain (DV) |
Management | None required | Self-managed |
Using Third-Party SSL Certificates
If you require a wildcard SSL certificate:
- Recommended Providers:
- Namecheap
- DigiCert
- Sectigo
- Key Considerations:
- Purchase from trusted providers only
- Ensure proper budget for renewal
- Plan for manual installation and renewal
- Consider technical expertise required
Note: For installation instructions, see our guide on "Creating SSL Certificates Using AutoSSL in cPanel"
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I need to pay for SSL certificates at WPCloud?
A: No, standard SSL certificates are included free with all hosting accounts.
Q: How secure are the free SSL certificates?
A: Our Let's Encrypt certificates provide the same level of encryption as paid alternatives and are trusted by all major browsers.
Q: Can I use multiple SSL certificates on one domain?
A: While possible, it's typically unnecessary and may cause conflicts. We recommend using either our free SSL or a single wildcard certificate.
Q: What happens when my SSL certificate expires?
A: Our included SSL certificates renew automatically. For third-party certificates, you'll need to handle renewal manually.
Best Practices
- Choose the Right Certificate:
- Use included SSL for single domains
- Consider wildcard SSL only if managing multiple subdomains
- Evaluate cost vs. convenience for your needs
- Maintain Security:
- Keep domain ownership information current
- Monitor certificate expiration dates (for third-party SSLs)
- Ensure proper DNS configuration
Getting Support
Need assistance with SSL certificates? Our support team is available 24/7:
- Support Portal: https://support.wpcloud.ca/clientarea.php
- Email: support@wpcloud.ca
- Response Time: Typically within 15 minutes
Last updated on November 19, 2024