Here is the translation of the Polish text into English:
Owners of online stores often ask themselves: What SSL for an online store will be the best? This is one of the most important issues that affects not only security but also customer trust and Google’s page ranking.
In this article, I will explain what exactly a certificate SSL is, its types, when to consider a paid version, and when the free Let’s Encrypt is enough. At the end of the article, you’ll find practical advice on what SSL to choose for an online store in order not to overpay and meet all requirements.
What is SSL and why it’s mandatory in an online store?
SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) is a protocol for encrypting data transmission between the user and the server. In practice, this means that every piece of information – login, registration, address details or payment details – cannot be intercepted or eavesdropped by third parties.
For online store owners, this means several benefits:
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Customer security – personal and financial data are protected, minimizing the risk of leaks.
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Trust and credibility – the HTTPS lock next to the website’s address increases customers’ sense of security.
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Legal requirement – in accordance with the GDPR, personal data must be properly secured.
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Better SEO – Google has considered SSL a negative factor since 2018, labeling non-SSL websites as “insecure.”
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Higher conversion rates – lack of a certificate can deter customers from making a purchase.
What are the types of SSL certificates?
Before we answer what SSL for an online store, you need to know about basic certificate types:
1. SSL DV (Domain Validation)
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Free of charge
2. SSL OV (Organization Validation)
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Paid version with additional verification elements
3. SSL EV (Extended Validation)
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Most secure and expensive option, often used by banks and financial institutions
What SSL for an online store will be the best?
In summary:
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If you run a small or medium-sized online store – use the free Let’s Encrypt certificate (DV).
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If you serve thousands of customers daily and build a recognizable brand – consider SSL OV.
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If you are a bank, payment operator, or financial institution – invest in SSL EV.
It’s essential to remember that every SSL certificate – free or paid – provides the same level of encryption security. The difference lies only in the verification process and additional “trust badges.”
Most frequently asked questions about SSL for online stores
Does Google differentiate between free and paid SSL?
No, it only checks if the website uses HTTPS.
Is free Let’s Encrypt safe?
Yes, providing the same level of security as paid DV certificates.
Do I have to pay for Let’s Encrypt installation?
The certificate itself is free, but you might need to pay for the setup and configuration on your server.
Do I need to renew Let’s Encrypt?
Yes, every 90 days, but many servers allow automatic renewal.
Conclusion
If you’re wondering what SSL for an online store to choose, in 90% of cases, the best solution will be the free Let’s Encrypt certificate. It meets all security requirements, builds customer trust, and supports search engine optimization.
