An SSL certificate encrypts the connection between your website and your visitors, switches your site to HTTPS and shows the padlock in the browser. Without one, browsers like Chrome warn visitors that your site is “Not secure”, which costs you trust and enquiries.
At Web Design Hosting SA you have two options: a free SSL certificate included with every hosting plan, or a paid RapidSSL certificate.
SSL Certificate Options and Prices
| Free SSL (Let’s Encrypt) | RapidSSL Certificate | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Free with every hosting plan | R350 per year + R150 once-off setup fee |
| Encrypts your site (HTTPS and padlock) | Yes | Yes |
| Validation type | Domain validated | Domain validated |
| Installation | Installed automatically for most domains when your hosting is activated (AutoSSL) | Ordered through your client area |
| Renewal | Renews automatically | Renewed annually |
| View hosting plans | Order RapidSSL |
For most small business websites, the free SSL certificate included with your web hosting is all you need. A paid certificate can make sense if you prefer a commercial certificate authority, or if your site is hosted somewhere that does not include free SSL.
Why Every Website Needs SSL
How to Check Your SSL Certificate
Our help centre has a step-by-step guide: how to install a free SSL certificate, and how to force HTTPS on your website. For the background, read what an SSL certificate is and how HTTPS works.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is SSL included with your hosting?
Yes. All our hosting plans include a free SSL certificate powered by Let’s Encrypt, and for most domains it is installed automatically when your hosting account is activated.
How much does an SSL certificate cost?
The Let’s Encrypt certificate included with our hosting is free. A RapidSSL certificate costs R350 per year plus a once-off R150 setup fee.
What is the difference between free and paid SSL?
Both encrypt your website and show the padlock. Both are domain validated certificates. The main differences are the certificate authority that issues them and how they are renewed.
My website still says “Not secure”. What should I do?
Run AutoSSL in cPanel, then make sure your site redirects all traffic to HTTPS. If it still does not work, open a support ticket and our team will help.