Looking for a cheap wildcard SSL certificate? Discover the best budget-friendly options that secure your main domain + all subdomains without breaking the bank.
Securing multiple subdomains can be expensive, but a cheap wildcard SSL offers an affordable solution. Wildcard SSL certificates protect your main domain and unlimited subdomains under a single certificate, saving you money compared to buying individual SSLs.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best budget wildcard SSL options, key features to consider, and how to install them correctly.
2. What is a Wildcard SSL Certificate?
A wildcard SSL certificate secures:
✅ example.com
✅ blog.example.com
✅ shop.example.com
✅ *.example.com (all future subdomains)
Unlike standard SSLs, a wildcard certificate uses an asterisk (*) to cover all subdomains, making it cost-effective for growing websites.
3. Why Choose a Cheap Wildcard SSL?
✔️ Cost Savings
Instead of buying separate certificates for each subdomain, one cheap wildcard SSL covers everything.
✔️ Easy Management
Manage all subdomains from a single certificate—no need to track multiple expirations.
✔️ Scalability
Automatically secures new subdomains as your site grows.
✔️ Strong Encryption
Even budget options offer 256-bit encryption and SHA-2 security.
4. Top 5 Cheap Wildcard SSL Providers
| Provider | Price (1 Year) | Validation | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sectigo PositiveSSL Wildcard | $56/year | DV | $50,000 |
| RapidSSL Wildcard | $99/year | DV | $10,000 |
| Namecheap SSL Wildcard | $69/year | DV | $50,000 |
| AlphaSSL Wildcard | $49/year | DV | $250,000 |
| GoDaddy Wildcard SSL | $149/year | DV | $1,000,000 |
Best Budget Pick:
Sectigo PositiveSSL Wildcard ($56/year) – Reliable, trusted, and affordable.
5. Features to Look for in a Budget Wildcard SSL
🔹 Domain Validation (DV) – Fast issuance (minutes to hours)
🔹 Unlimited Subdomains – Covers *.yourdomain.com
🔹 256-bit Encryption – Military-grade security
🔹 Browser Compatibility – Works on 99.9% of browsers
🔹 Warranty – At least $10,000 protection
🔹 Money-Back Guarantee – 30-day refund policy
❌ Avoid super-cheap SSLs from unknown providers—they may lack proper encryption.
6. How to Install a Wildcard SSL Certificate
Step 1: Generate a CSR
- Use your hosting panel (cPanel, Plesk, or WHM) to create a Certificate Signing Request (CSR).
Step 2: Purchase & Activate
- Buy a cheap wildcard SSL and submit your CSR.
Step 3: Verify Domain Ownership
- Confirm via email or DNS record.
Step 4: Install the Certificate
- Upload the issued certificate files to your server.
Step 5: Force HTTPS
- Update .htaccess or server config to redirect HTTP → HTTPS.
7. Common Wildcard SSL Issues & Fixes
❌ “SSL Not Secure” Warning
➡️ Ensure the certificate is installed correctly on all subdomains.
❌ Mixed Content Errors
➡️ Replace http:// links with https:// in your code.
❌ Subdomains Not Secured
➡️ Check if the wildcard (*.domain.com) is properly configured.
❌ Certificate Expired
➡️ Renew before expiration or enable auto-renewal.
8. FAQs About Cheap Wildcard SSL Certificates
Q1. Is a cheap wildcard SSL safe?
✅ Yes! Budget wildcard SSLs (like Sectigo, RapidSSL) still offer strong encryption—just avoid shady providers.
Q2. Can I use a wildcard SSL for multiple domains?
❌ No. Wildcard SSLs only cover subdomains of one domain. For multiple domains, use a Multi-Domain SSL.
Q3. How long does wildcard SSL validation take?
⏳ DV Wildcard SSLs: Minutes to hours (no business verification).
Q4. Where’s the cheapest place to buy a wildcard SSL?
💰 Sectigo PositiveSSL Wildcard ($56/year) or AlphaSSL Wildcard ($49/year).
For more helpful blog posts like this one, visit the rest of our site Private Delights.
9. Conclusion
A cheap wildcard SSL is the perfect solution for securing unlimited subdomains at an affordable price. Top providers like Sectigo, RapidSSL, and Namecheap offer reliable certificates under $100/year.
Also Read-Exploring advanced techniques in independent financial trading
