StartSSL

StartSSL

StartSSL is a free SSL certificate authority that provides basic SSL certificates for securing websites. Its certificates help enable HTTPS and TLS encryption for websites to allow for secure data transmission.
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ssl certificates https tls encryption websites

StartSSL: Free SSL Certificates

Free SSL certificate authority providing basic SSL certificates for securing websites, enabling HTTPS and TLS encryption for secure data transmission.

What is StartSSL?

StartSSL is a certificate authority founded in 2008 that issues free basic SSL certificates for websites. Its certificates utilize 2048-bit encryption to enable HTTPS and the TLS protocol on websites, allowing for secure transmission of data between servers and visitors.

Some key features of StartSSL's free certificates include:

  • Domain Validation certificates issued within minutes
  • Supports up to 5 domains on one cert
  • Valid for 1 year
  • Recognized by all major browsers
  • Enables green padlock and https in browsers
  • Allows use of HSTS security headers

While the basic certificates lack extended validation and some features of paid options, they provide essential transport layer security for small sites and personal projects at no cost. More advanced certificates are available for purchase from StartSSL with more vetting and longer validity periods.

StartSSL Features

Features

  1. Provides free basic SSL certificates for securing websites
  2. Enables HTTPS and TLS encryption for websites
  3. Allows for secure data transmission
  4. Simple and fast certificate issuance and installation
  5. Supports multiple domains with one certificate
  6. Browser-trusted certificates

Pricing

  • Free
  • Freemium

Pros

Free basic certificates

Easy and quick to get and install certificates

Good option for personal websites or testing SSL

Trusted CA for major browsers

Allows secure HTTPS connections

Cons

Only provides basic validation level certificates

Lacks features of paid SSL providers

No customer support

Short 90 day certificate validity period

Requires manual renewal every 90 days


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