Best web hosting with free SSLs in 2025
Through independent research and testing, our team of experts offers transparent and thorough reviews of web hosting providers. We use the same testing criteria for all providers to offer a fair and unbiased assessment of each hosting service.
Our in-depth articles include feedback about our hands-on hosting experience and other crucial information for potential customers.
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In today’s digital landscape, SSL certificates have become a fundamental aspect of web security. Reputable hosting providers now include free SSL certificates as part of their packages, making it easier and more affordable for website owners to secure their sites. An SSL (Secure Socket Layer) certificate encrypts data between a user’s browser and your website, protecting sensitive information such as passwords and payment details.
In this guide, I focused on hosting providers that offer free SSL certificates along with easy setup, reliable performance, competitive pricing, free domains, responsive customer support, and sufficient storage and bandwidth.
Best hosting providers with free SSLs: shortlist
- Hostinger – best web hosting with free SSL, from $2.69/month
- Bluehost – easy-to-use hosting provider with free SSL, from $1.99/month
- DreamHost – optimal free SSL hosting for new and established businesses, from $2.59/month
- Namecheap – secure hosting with free SSL, from $1.58/month
- IONOS – cheap hosting with free SSL, from $1.00/month
- SiteGround – top host with free Wildcard SSL for business, from $2.99/month
- Liquid Web – the best VPS host with free SSL, from $5.00/month
What is SSL?
SSL (Secure Socket Layer) is a technology that keeps your website’s communication safe. It encrypts the data sent between your website and visitors’ browsers. Think of SSL as a lock that ensures no one can read or change the information while it’s in transit.
HTTP stands for Hypertext Transfer Protocol. It’s the basic method that websites use to send and receive information. HTTPS is the secure version, with the "S" standing for "Secure." It adds SSL encryption, protecting your site from unauthorized access and data theft.
With HTTPS, your website is much safer. It helps prevent threats like data breaches or hackers intercepting sensitive information, such as passwords or payment details.
When a website uses HTTPS, you’ll see a padlock icon in the address bar of your browser. This shows the connection is secure and the site can be trusted.
Hosting with free SSL certificates: detailed list
To find the best hosting providers that offer free SSL, I, with the research team, tested and reviewed 58 hosts. In this section, I’ll present the top hosting providers that stood out in our in-house tests for offering free SSL certificates alongside secure, reliable, and well-performing services.
Hosting performance can change with updates, so we regularly recheck our findings to keep the list accurate and dependable.
1. Hostinger
| Starting price: | From $2.69/month |
| Free SSL: | Unlimited |
| Free domain: | Yes (for the first year) |
| Current deal: | Get up to 78% OFF Hostinger + free months |
Hostinger's free unlimited SSL certificates are available with all hosting plans:
- Premium –from $2.96/month
- Business – from $3.59/month
- Cloud Startup – from $7.19/month
Each Hostinger plan includes a free Let’s Encrypt SSL certificate, valid for 90 days and automatically renewed afterward. The SSL installation process is automatic, meaning users don’t have to activate it manually. SSL is included across all plans at no extra charge after expiry. However, compatibility is limited to the main domain, and Wildcard SSL support (for protecting multiple subdomains) is only available with VPS hosting plans.
As Hostinger tests show, beyond SSL, it impresses with its affordability and user-friendliness. Starting at just $2.69/month, it offers a range of hosting options, including shared, WordPress, VPS, and cloud hosting. Features like LiteSpeed Web Servers, built-in cache engines, and intuitive control panels make it a high-speed and reliable provider with excellent performance. Its custom hPanel combines ease of use with robust functionality, making it a strong choice for both beginners and experienced users.
Installing SSL on Hostinger is seamless and beginner-friendly. SSL certificates are automatically installed and enabled on your domains after purchasing a hosting subscription. If automatic installation doesn’t occur, you can easily install SSL manually through the dashboard by selecting Install SSL. The process is quick, usually completed within minutes.
Additional security features include DDoS protection, a Web Application Firewall (WAF), and a Malware Scanner, which strengthen overall website security beyond just SSL encryption.
Hostinger offers 24/7 live chat, email support, and a robust knowledge base, though no phone support is available. While response times in live chat have slowed slightly lately, agents remain professional and helpful, focusing on hosting-related issues.
Hostinger is particularly suitable for individuals and small businesses venturing into the online space. With its affordability, ease of use, and essential features like free domain registration and website builders, it caters well to those starting a new website or migrating from an overpriced host.
You can also explore Hostinger’s technical strengths, uptime results, and speed benchmarks in our detailed Hostinger performance review.
2. Bluehost
| Starting price: | From $1.99/month |
| Free SSL: | Unlimited |
| Free domain: | Yes (for the first year) |
| Current deal: | Get up to 83% OFF Bluehost |
The free SSL is included in all Bluehost hosting plans:
- Basic – from $1.99/month
-
Choice Plus – from $3.95/month
- eCommerce Essentials – from $7.45/month
Each Bluehost plan includes a free Let’s Encrypt SSL certificate, valid for 90 days initially, followed by automatic renewal. SSL installation is manual at first setup, meaning users need to activate it through their dashboard. SSLs are included across all plans without extra charges after the initial period. However, SSL covers only the main domain, and for broader coverage across subdomains, Bluehost also offers Wildcard SSL support.
Bluehost presents its hosting solutions, with prices starting at just $1.99/month. The subscription package is feature-packed, including a complimentary domain, secure SSL certification, dependable customer support, and a range of hosting choices from shared to dedicated servers. The inclusion of a website builder and marketing tools further enhances its appeal, especially for those stepping into the online space for the first time. Security-wise, Bluehost enhances user protection with built-in DDoS protection, WAF, and malware scanning.
Bluehost’s customer support is reliable and responsive. In my experience, live chat agents connect in seconds and provide polite, helpful answers without much delay. For more advanced help, Bluehost offers Blue Sky, a premium support option that includes assistance with backups, design guidance, and more. Combined with an extensive knowledge base, Bluehost ensures you’re never left without support.
Overall, as Bluehost's performance shows, it is an ideal hosting solution for those starting their digital journey. Whether it's a personal blog, a small business site, or a WordPress project, Bluehost provides efficiency and all the essential features.
3. DreamHost
| Starting price: | From $2.59/month |
| Free SSL: | Unlimited |
| Free domain: | Yes (for the first year) |
| Current deal: | Get DreamHost, now 72% OFF |
Each plan comes with a Let’s Encrypt SSL certificate:
- Shared – from $2.59/month
- DreamPress – from $16.95/month
- VPS – from $10.00/month
- Cloud – from $4.50/month
- Dedicated – from $165.00/month
DreamHost includes unlimited free Let’s Encrypt SSL certificates with every plan. SSL activation is automatic during setup and covers your primary domain but does not extend to subdomains unless separately managed. SSLs are automatically renewed, with no extra charges after expiry. However, DreamHost does not support Wildcard SSL certificates.
The starting price for DreamHost, with free SSL included, is priced attractively at $2.59/month. It is ideal for newcomers and small enterprises. It includes up to 50GB of storage, catering as well to file sharing needs. DreamHost offers strong security measures, including DDoS protection, spam and malware protection, and robust web application and network firewalls, adding extra layers of defense for hosted websites.
DreamHost provides 24/7 live chat, email ticket support, and a detailed knowledge base. While live chat is responsive, ticket replies may take up to 24 hours. Phone support is available as a paid callback service. Overall, support is reliable and suited for hosting-related issues.
DreamHost plans show that its suitable for a wide range of users, from beginners to small and medium-sized businesses particularly appealing for those looking for an all-inclusive hosting solution. Its comprehensive features and excellent performance make it a top choice for anyone seeking a hosting provider with robust free SSL options. You can learn more about uptime, speed, and technical reliability in our DreamHost’s performance review.
4. Namecheap
| Starting price: | From $1.58/month |
| Free SSL: | 50 websites for 1st year |
| Free domain: | Yes (for the first year) |
| Current deal: | Get Namecheap, now 70% OFF |
Each plan comes with a free SSL certificate for the first year, ensuring a secure connection for your main domain:
- Shared (Stellar) – from $1.58/month
- Shared (Stellar Plus) – from $2.28/month
- Shared (Stellar Business) – from $4.48/month
Namecheap includes a PositiveSSL certificate free for the first year with all hosting plans. After the first year, renewal is manual and paid. The SSL covers only the main domain, but compatibility also extends to custom domains. Wildcard SSL support is available for users who need protection across multiple subdomains.
Namecheap stands out for its remarkably economical hosting solutions, with shared hosting plans starting at as low as $1.58/month. This makes it an attractive choice, particularly for individuals and small businesses. The hosting packages include essential features such as a free domain name, SSL certificate, and access to a website builder, enhancing value. Their hosting options also offer a range of choices from shared to dedicated servers, catering to various needs at a budget-friendly price point.
I found SSL installation with Namecheap incredibly easy. Free SSL certificates are automatically installed when domains are added, which saves time and effort. For those who need more control, Namecheap also supports installing third-party SSL certificates through user-friendly control panels. This flexibility impressed me, making it a great choice for both beginners and advanced users. Namecheap provides additional security features like DDoS protection, a free SuperSonic CDN, and domain privacy services, enhancing overall website security beyond SSL.
Namecheap offers 24/7 live chat with quick, professional responses. Agents resolve issues efficiently, providing clear explanations. While there's no phone support, users can also request help via email, and the detailed knowledge base offers helpful step-by-step guides for beginners.
As Namecheap's analysis shows, it is ideally suited for individuals and small businesses looking for an affordable hosting solution with the necessities, including free SSL, for a secure online presence. You can also check Namecheap performance insights for more on uptime and server reliability.
5. IONOS
| Starting price: | From $1.00/month |
| Free SSL: | Unlimited |
| Free domain: | Yes (for the first year) |
| Current deal: | Get up to 91% OFF IONOS |
Free SSL certificates are included with every IONOS hosting plan:
- Shared hosting – from $1.00/month
- WordPress hosting – from $1.00/month
- VPS hosting – from $2.00/month
- Dedicated hosting – from $41.00/month
Each plan comes with a free Wildcard SSL valid for one year. SSL installation is manual but relatively easy via the IONOS control panel. After the first year, you’ll need to renew the SSL manually, and additional charges apply if you want to extend SSL coverage beyond the free period. The SSL covers both the main domain and all subdomains, offering excellent protection for growing websites. Compatibility with custom domains is also supported.
Each plan includes a free domain for the first year, at least 10GB of storage, unlimited bandwidth, daily backups, and DDoS protection. Features like georedundant data centers and compatibility with all major browsers further enhance IONOS’ reliability and usability. In addition to DDoS protection, IONOS provides a Site Scan tool to detect vulnerabilities early, further enhancing security.
IONOS offers 24/7 phone support with quick response times. The live chat option is unreliable – I never saw it working during IONOS testing. However, its knowledge base is extensive, with well-organized articles for self-troubleshooting.
IONOS offers tailored solutions for personal sites, eCommerce, and businesses. Free SSL, strong security features, and scalability make it a solid choice. Our tests showed IONOS had significantly lower uptime (around 85%) compared to other hosts, which may be a concern for websites that require consistent availability. You can learn more about the service’s stability and efficiency in our detailed IONOS performance review.
6. SiteGround
| Starting price: | From $2.99/month |
| Free SSL: | Unlimited |
| Free domain: | Yes (for the first year) |
| Current deal: | Get up to 83% OFF SiteGround + FREE TRANSFER |
All SiteGround hosting plans include free SSL:
- Shared – from $2.99/month
- WordPress – from $2.99/month
-
VPS – from $100.00/month
Each plan includes a free Let’s Encrypt SSL certificate valid for 90 days, with automatic renewal. The SSL covers your primary domain, and SiteGround also supports Wildcard SSL certificates for securing subdomains. However, SSL is not compatible with custom domains by default. SSL installation is fully automatic, making setup seamless even for beginners. After the initial free period, there are no extra charges, and all plans come with this SSL option built in.
SiteGround's pricing starts at $2.99/month, delivering excellent value with its variety of features. Its paid plans are loaded with benefits such as daily data backups for peace of mind, generous storage beginning at 10GB, and unmetered traffic, ensuring consistent website performance. Security-wise, SiteGround includes Smart WAF, AI anti-bot protection, and continuous server monitoring, making it a solid option for users who prioritize safety.
SiteGround offers 24/7 support via live chat, phone, and tickets. It encourages using the help widget, which is available on every page, for quick access to articles and tutorials. If you prefer direct contact, its team is efficient and responsive.
SiteGround testing showed that it is an excellent choice for businesses, bloggers, and eCommerce sites, particularly those built on WordPress. Its blend of advanced technology and comprehensive SSL coverage makes it a well-rounded hosting solution. You can explore SiteGround’s uptime, speed, and reliability in our latest SiteGround performance review.
7. Liquid Web
| Starting price: | From $5.00/month |
| Free SSL: | Unlimited and auto-renewing |
| Free domain: | No |
| Current deal: | Get Liquid Web, now 85% OFF |
Every Liquid Web VPS hosting plan comes with a free SSL certificate:
- VPS hosting (Cloud VPS) – from $5.00/month
- VPS hosting (Essential VPS) – from $14.85/month
- VPS hosting (Advanced VPS) – from $20.85/month
- VPS hosting (Professional VPS) – from $44.00/month
Each plan includes a free Let’s Encrypt SSL certificate valid for 90 days, with automatic renewal. However, SSL setup must be completed manually through the control panel. While it is easy for users with some experience, beginners may need to follow guides.
The SSL covers only the primary domain and is not compatible with custom domains by default. Liquid Web also supports Wildcard SSL certificates for broader coverage, including subdomains. There are no extra charges after expiry, and SSL is included in all VPS plans.
Liquid Web is an affordable choice for businesses and developers needing scalable VPS hosting solutions. However, as this provider focuses solely on VPS hosting, it lacks budget-friendly shared hosting options, and its plans may be pricier than some alternatives.
Liquid Web testing showed its response time was longer compared to other providers. However, once connected, the support team was friendly, efficient, and provided clear answers. For some queries, like security advice, they redirect users to their well-maintained knowledge base, which is extensive and easy to navigate. While support is reliable, faster response times would improve the experience.
You can review technical benchmarks in our Liquid Web performance review.
Hosting providers with free SSL comparison
| Provider | Rating | Pricing | Number of SSLs | Uptime results | Storage starts at | Bandwidth | Customer service response time | Free domain |
| Hostinger | From $2.69/month | Unlimited | 100% | 25GB SSD | Unlimited | 1 minute | ✅ Yes (for the first year) | |
| Bluehost | From $1.99/month | Unlimited | 100% | 10GB SSD | Unmetered | 4 minutes | ✅ Yes (for the first year) | |
| DreamHost | From $2.59/month | Unlimited | 100% | 30GB SSD | Unmetered | 2 minutes | ✅ Yes (for the first year) | |
| Namecheap | From $1.58/month | 50 websites for the 1st year | 100% | 10GB SSD | Unmetered | 2 minutes | ✅ Yes (for the first year) | |
| IONOS | From $1.00/month | Unlimited | 85% | 100GB | Unlimited | Temporarily unavailable | ✅ Yes (for the first year) | |
| SiteGround | From $2.99/month | Unlimited | 100% | 10GB SSD | Unmetered | 3 minutes | ✅ Yes (for the first year) | |
| Liquid Web | From $5.00/month | Unlimited | 100% | 30GB | From 1TB bandwidth | Couldn't reach | ❌ No |
How we ranked hosting with free SSL
I, with the help of the Cybernews research team, reviewed 58 hosting providers, focusing on key factors like the number of free SSLs offered, pricing, performance, and other essential features. After careful evaluation, I narrowed the list to the top 7 providers for in-depth testing, based on the following criteria:
- Number of SSLs (30%). More SSL certificates mean more flexibility for subdomains and multi-site security, which is crucial for growing websites.
- Pricing (20%). Competitive pricing with free SSL is essential. I prioritized affordable plans offering great value for the resources and SSL included.
- Performance (15%). Fast, reliable performance impacts user experience. I tested uptime and server speeds to ensure minimal downtime and quick load times.
- Customer support (10%). 24/7 support is a must for troubleshooting issues quickly. I tested responsiveness and availability.
- Storage (10%). Adequate storage (SSD preferred) is essential for managing data-heavy sites, ensuring good site speed.
- Bandwidth (5%). Sufficient bandwidth prevents site slowdowns during traffic spikes. I made sure providers offered enough for most small-to-medium websites.
- Free domain (5%). A free domain adds value to the plan, saving you money in the long run.
- Ease of setup (5%). A simple, user-friendly setup process ensures you can install and manage SSL without hassle.
How to get an SSL certificate for free?
Obtaining a free SSL certificate is a crucial step in enhancing your website's security and credibility. There are several ways to acquire these certificates at no cost, ensuring your site's data is encrypted and your visitors' privacy is protected. It’s important to note that since SSL certificates are a free resource, every user can get them for free directly from Let's Encrypt or ZeroSSL, regardless of whether their hosting provider offers them or not. Here are some of the most trusted and accessible methods.
Get web hosting with free SSL
Selecting a web hosting service that offers a free SSL certificate is a smart move for website security and SEO benefits. Many hosting providers bundle SSL certificates as part of their packages, eliminating the need for separate acquisition and installation.
Options like Let's Encrypt, a widely respected source for free SSL certificates, are often integrated into hosting plans. This integration simplifies the process, ensuring a seamless and secure web hosting experience with the added advantage of encrypted data transmission right from the start.
Explore website builder platforms
Certain website builder platforms integrate free SSL certificates when you opt for their paid plans. This is particularly beneficial for those who prefer a comprehensive solution for building and securing their websites. These platforms provide a hassle-free route to SSL certification, ensuring that your website remains protected and trustworthy from day one. One of the best website builders that offers a free SSL is Wix – I highly recommend it if you’re looking to build a professional and secure website.
Consider promotional offers and non-profit programs
Keep an eye out for special promotions from hosting companies, as they sometimes offer free SSL certificates as part of promotional deals. Non-profit organizations can also look into specific programs tailored to their needs, which may include complimentary SSL options. These opportunities are excellent for securing a free SSL certificate, particularly for new businesses or non-profits stepping into the digital arena. One of the most well-known free SSL projects is the Let’s Encrypt SSL certificate – it is free, user-friendly, open, and secure.
Is free web hosting with SSL a good choice?
While free web hosting with an SSL certificate may seem like an attractive option, it’s important to consider the long-term reliability and performance of your website. Free hosting often comes with limitations, such as slower speeds, less uptime, and inconsistent SSL support. SSL certificates require continuous maintenance and proper integration, which is more reliably handled by paid hosting providers.
Paid hosting services like Hostinger ensure your SSL certificates stay active with automatic renewal and consistent security.
Final thoughts
Based on our testing and reviews, Hostinger is the best hosting provider with free SSLs. Excelling in affordability, ease of use, and reliable performance, this service is ideally suited for both new and experienced users. Further bolstered by its dependable customer support, Hostinger provides a well-rounded hosting package.
Its harmonious integration with WordPress amplifies its attractiveness, offering a streamlined experience for users of the popular content management system. The inclusion of a free SSL certificate adds a layer of security and trustworthiness, making Bluehost an attractive option for anyone in search of a trustworthy and feature-rich hosting solution.
Hosting with free SSL FAQ
Do I really need an SSL certificate?
Yes, an SSL certificate is crucial for website security. It encrypts data, protects user information, boosts SEO rankings, and builds trust with visitors. Without SSL, browsers may flag your site as unsafe, deterring potential customers.
Is it worth paying for SSL?
If your hosting provider offers SSL for free, there’s no need to buy one. However, if they don’t, paying for SSL is recommended for security, protecting sensitive data, improving SEO rankings, and building trust with visitors. A paid SSL also often includes automated renewals and additional support.
How much does an SSL certificate typically cost?
On average, an SSL certificate costs about $60 per year. However, prices can range from as low as $8 to over $1000 annually. The cost depends on factors like the level of validation, the number of domains covered, the type of certificate, and the issuing certificate authority.
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