In today’s digital world, website security is crucial. Google’s “Not Secure” label for non-SSL websites is a clear indication of this.
Without an SSL certificate, your website’s authenticity and reliability can be at stake. This is especially crucial if you accept online payments on your website.
Here’s good news for you. To get an SSL certificate for your site you don’t need to break the bank. There are various methods to get a free SSL certificate for WordPress site, helping you to boost your website’s security without spending much.
In this article, we’ll help you understand the process of easily obtaining a free SSL certificate for your WordPress website and setting it up on your own.
But before we proceed, let’s first have a profound understanding of SSL.
Why Do You Need an SSL Certificate for Your WordPress Site Security ?
SSL, or Secure Socket Layer, is a fundamental component of website security. It encrypts data shared between your website and visitors. SSL acts as a protective barrier and ensures that sensitive information, such as login credentials, personal details, and payment data, remains confidential and secure.
This encryption safeguards your users’ information and also protects your website from cyber threats. Moreover, having an SSL certificate is vital for building trust with your audience.
When visitors see the padlock icon and ‘https’ in the address bar, they are more likely to perceive your site as safe and trustworthy. This further boosts their confidence in interacting with your content and making transactions.
In today’s digital age, an SSL certificate is not just a good-to-have but a must-have for any website to boost WordPress site security.
How Does SSL Certificate Work to Safeguard Your WordPress Site?
When you visit a website with an SSL certificate, your web browser checks its authenticity. Then, a connection is established through a secure connection setup, during which encrypted data is exchanged. This encryption keeps your connection protected and makes it extremely difficult for unauthorized parties to intercept or decipher your data.
How to Get A WordPress SSL Certificate For Free?
- Choose a Hosting Provider
- Use Let’s Encrypt
- Use Cloudflare
- WordPress Plugins
- Manual Installation
Among these options, one of the most user-friendly methods to install a free WordPress SSL certificate is by using plugins.
So, let’s dive into this process and explore how you can effortlessly secure your website with SSL using plugins.
How to Install a Free SSL Certificate for WordPress Using Plugins?
Begin by selecting the SSL plugin that suits your needs. You can search for this plugin within your WordPress dashboard under ‘Plugins’ > ‘Add New.’ Let’s say you have selected Really Simple SSL plugin.
Now, click ‘Install’ and then ‘Activate.’ This will enable the plugin’s features. Most SSL plugins require minimal configuration. However, it’s a good practice to go through the plugin settings to ensure it aligns with your website’s specific requirements. After configuration, the plugin will take care of the technicalities, such as redirecting your site to HTTPS and ensuring SSL certificates are in place.
Finally, the activation is done but don’t forget to test your website. Verify that the SSL WordPress certificate is working correctly by checking for the padlock icon in your browser’s address bar.
And there you have it! In a few simple steps, you’ve secured your WordPress website with a free WordPress SSL certificate. Now, your visitors can browse your website with confidence, knowing their data is safe from snooping eyes.
