When securing your website, you can choose between Let’s Encrypt SSL certificates (free, automated) and traditional CA‑issued certificates (paid, with extended features). Both provide encryption, but they differ in trust level, support, and functionality.
Let’s Encrypt SSL Certificates
-
Free of charge → No cost to issue or renew.
-
Automated issuance → Certificates are created and installed quickly using the ACME protocol.
-
Short validity → Certificates are valid for 90 days and must be renewed frequently.
-
Domain validation only (DV) → Confirms domain ownership but does not verify organization identity.
-
No warranty or liability coverage → If compromised, there is no financial protection.
-
Community support only → No dedicated staff for troubleshooting or installation help.
Traditional CA‑Issued Certificates
-
Paid certificates → Cost varies depending on validation level and provider.
-
Longer validity → Typically valid for 1 year (up to 13 months maximum by industry standards).
-
Multiple validation levels:
-
DV (Domain Validation) → Confirms domain ownership.
-
OV (Organization Validation) → Verifies business identity.
-
EV (Extended Validation) → Highest trust, shows company name in browser address bar.
-
-
Warranty included → Financial protection if the certificate fails or is mis‑issued.
-
Dedicated support → Providers like DigiCert, Sectigo, or GlobalSign offer professional help.
-
More options → Wildcard SSLs, multi‑domain SSLs, and advanced features available.
Key Differences
| Feature | Let’s Encrypt SSL | Traditional CA‑Issued SSL |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Free | Paid (varies by provider) |
| Validity Period | 90 days | Up to 13 months |
| Validation Level | DV only | DV, OV, EV options |
| Warranty | None | Included |
| Support | Community only | Dedicated staff |
| Certificate Options | Limited | Wildcard, multi‑domain, EV |
Notes
|
