In today’s digital world, online security is no longer optional. Whether you run a small business website, blog, ecommerce store, or membership platform, your visitors expect a safe, trustworthy browsing experience. One of the most important ways to provide that security is by using an SSL certificate.

If you’ve ever wondered why web hosts charge for SSLs—or how some people get them for free using Let’s Encrypt on their own VPS—this guide breaks it all down in simple terms.

What Is an SSL Certificate?

SSL stands for Secure Sockets Layer. It’s a digital certificate that encrypts the connection between your website and your visitors’ browsers. When SSL is enabled, your website uses HTTPS instead of HTTP, and visitors see a padlock icon in the address bar.

SSL certificates help protect:

• Login forms

• Payment information

• Customer data

• Any information submitted through your website

Beyond security, SSL is now a must-have for SEO. Google gives ranking preference to secure websites, and most browsers warn users when a site doesn’t have SSL installed.

Why Do Web Hosts Charge for SSL Certificates?

If you’ve ever purchased hosting from companies like GoDaddy, Bluehost, HostGator, SiteGround, or others, you’ve probably noticed they offer paid SSL certificates—sometimes for $60, $100, or more.

So why do they charge for something that can technically be free?

1. They often sell “premium” SSL options

These may include:

• Extended validation (EV) certificates

• Organization validation (OV) certificates

• Wildcard SSL for covering many subdomains

• Additional warranties

Most small businesses don’t need these, but hosts price them as upgrades.

2. Revenue

Let’s be honest—SSLs are a profitable add-on service.

3. Convenience

Paid SSLs through hosts are typically:

• Installed automatically

• Renewed automatically

• Supported through their customer service

For beginners, paying for convenience can feel worth it.

4. In some cases, free SSL isn’t offered

Not all web hosts integrate Let’s Encrypt or similar services. Some intentionally restrict free SSL offerings to encourage upsells.

But Here’s the Good News: SSL Doesn’t Have to Cost Anything

If you’re willing to take more control over your website, you can get fully valid, browser-recognized SSL certificates for free using Let’s Encrypt.

What Is Let’s Encrypt?

Let’s Encrypt is a free, automated, open certificate authority that provides trusted SSL certificates at no cost. It’s widely used by developers, sysadmins, and tech-savvy website owners.

Let’s Encrypt is:

• Free

• Secure

• Trusted by all major browsers

• Renewed automatically every 90 days

• Backed by major companies like Google, Mozilla, and the EFF

For most websites, a Let’s Encrypt SSL is more than enough.

Using Let’s Encrypt on Your Own VPS (Only $5/Month)

A VPS (Virtual Private Server) gives you full control over your hosting environment. Companies like DigitalOcean, Linode, Vultr, and others offer VPS plans starting at $5 per month—often cheaper than shared hosting + paid SSL.

With a VPS, you can install:

• NGINX or Apache

• Certbot (Let’s Encrypt’s automated tool)

• Your own web apps

• Custom configurations

How It Works (Simplified)

1. Create a VPS with your provider (around $5/month).

2. Install your web server software (NGINX or Apache).

3. Point your domain to your VPS using DNS.

4. Install Certbot, the Let’s Encrypt automation tool.

5. Run a simple command to generate your SSL certificate.
   Example:

    

or

1. sudo certbot --apache

2. Certbot automatically configures HTTPS and renews your certificate.

Benefits of Using Let’s Encrypt on a VPS

• Free SSL forever

• No upsells or renewal fees

• Your server, your rules

• Better performance and flexibility

• Cheaper than most shared hosting with add-ons

Plus, when you manage your own VPS, you can optimize your website for:

• Speed

• Security

• Custom features

• Scalability

Which Option Is Right for You? (Paid SSL vs. VPS + Let’s Encrypt)

Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide.

Paid SSL from Web Host

Best for: Beginners who want convenience
Pros:
✔ Easy setup
✔ Customer support
✔ Automatic installation

Cons:
✘ Can be expensive
✘ Doesn’t offer more security for most sites
✘ Limited to your host’s environment

Let’s Encrypt on a VPS

Best for: Those who want control and savings
Pros:
✔ Free
✔ Full control over server
✔ Better performance
✔ Scalable and customizable

Cons:
✘ Requires technical knowledge
✘ You manage the server
✘ Troubleshooting is on you (unless you hire someone)

Final Thoughts: SSL Is Mandatory—But Overpaying Isn’t

In 2026, every website needs SSL. But that doesn’t mean you have to spend $100 or more per year to get it.

If you’re using simple shared hosting and want a quick, hassle-free setup, paid SSL certificates work fine. But if you want:

• More control

• Better performance

• Lower long-term costs

…a $5 VPS with Let’s Encrypt is an incredibly powerful and affordable solution.

With the right setup, you can secure your site, boost your SEO, and run your web presence professionally—without the ongoing upsell fees.