Free or Commercial SSL Certificate? What You Need to Know About Securing Your Website

1. What is an SSL certificate and how does it work?

An SSL certificate (Secure Sockets Layer) secures the connection between your visitor’s browser and your server. When you see https:// and a padlock icon in the browser, it means data is encrypted and protected — including passwords, forms, and payment info.

Without SSL, browsers display warnings like “Not secure,” and data can be intercepted.

2. Types of SSL certificates

• Free SSL (Let’s Encrypt): included with all Mioritichost plans, valid for 90 days and auto-renewed;
• DV SSL (Domain Validation): basic validation, similar to free SSL, but from commercial providers (e.g. GeoTrust, Sectigo);
• OV SSL (Organization Validation): checks your company’s registration and details – suitable for business;
• EV SSL (Extended Validation): highest level of trust – company name shown in the browser address bar (ideal for banking, payments, or public institutions).

3. What Mioritichost provides

Every Mioritichost hosting plan includes a free Let’s Encrypt SSL certificate, automatically activated with your account. No manual setup required, no hidden fees. It auto-renews and is fully sufficient for most websites: blogs, portfolios, company pages or small shops.

4. When do you need a commercial SSL certificate?

• You want to display extended trust (e.g. EV with company name in browser bar);
• Your site processes payments directly (without external payment processors);
• You represent a public institution or regulated business;
• You require insurance (some commercial certificates offer warranty coverage in case of data compromise).

5. Why SSL is important for SEO and trust

Google favors secure websites in search rankings. If your site doesn’t use HTTPS, it may rank lower — and users may see a warning saying the site is insecure.

Also, if you use contact forms, login areas, or checkout pages, it’s your responsibility to protect user data. An SSL certificate is the first step in preventing data theft or man-in-the-middle attacks.

“At Mioritichost, every hosting account comes with a free SSL certificate pre-installed. Security is not optional.”

6. Conclusion

Whether you go with the free SSL included or opt for a commercial certificate, securing your website is essential. With Mioritichost, you’re protected by default — and if you need extra validation, we’ll help you choose the right option for your business.