Security is crucial in the current digital era, and one of the best ways to safeguard user data on your website is to utilize an SSL certificate (Secure Socket Layer). Many companies oversee several subdomains under a parent domain, like blog.example.com or shop.example.com, as websites expand and change.
Maintaining trust and security throughout your entire website depends on knowing how to appropriately secure these subdomains with an SSL certificate.
By switching, you not only increase the security of your website, but also help create a more secure and reliable internet for all users. Thus, take advantage of the advantages by switching to HTTPS right now!
We’ll go over all you need to know in this blog post on using SSL certificates to secure subdomains, the various alternatives available, and why it’s crucial for the security and search engine optimization of your website.
Why is an SSL certificate necessary, and what is it?
A digital security mechanism called an SSL certificate encrypts data sent back and forth between your website and its visitors. It guarantees the privacy and security of sensitive data, including credit card numbers, passwords, and personal information. Furthermore, SSL certificates verify the legitimacy of your website, ensuring that visitors are dealing with a trustworthy source.
There are various advantages of using SSL to secure your website:
- Enhanced Security: Encrypt data sent back and forth between the user and the server.
- Benefits of SEO: Because SSL is a ranking element, Google gives HTTPS websites a higher rating.
- Establishing Trust: When a website has a secure connection, as shown by the padlock icon in the browser bar, users are more likely to trust it.
Describe a subdomain.
A subdomain is an extra component of your domain name that facilitates navigation and organization of various website parts. For instance:
“example.com” is the primary domain.
shop.example.com (e-commerce subdomain)
blog.example.com (your blog’s subdomain)
Each subdomain serves a specific purpose or contains unique content, operating independently from the main domain.
Since subdomains can have different features or content, it’s essential to protect each one securely.
Do Subdomains Require SSL Certificates of Their Own?
Webmasters frequently ask this question, and the response varies depending on your preferred method of subdomain security. What you should know is as follows:
- Single Domain SSL Certificate: Subdomains are not covered by a regular SSL certificate, but it will secure your parent domain (for instance, example.com). Your main domain’s certificate won’t automatically protect your website’s subdomains, such blog.example.com or shop.example.com.
- Wildcard SSL Certificate: With a Wildcard SSL certificate, you may protect both your primary domain and an infinite number of subdomains. A wildcard SSL for example.com, for instance, will protect:
www.example.com
blog.example.com
Shop.example.comIf you have several subdomains under one main domain, this is a practical and affordable solution.
Further readings: Wildcard SSL certificate: What they are and when to use them
- Multi-Domain SSL Certificate (SAN SSL): SAN stands for Subject Alternative Name, and it uses a single certificate to secure several domains and subdomains. This choice is appropriate for you if you oversee multiple domains and subdomains, such example.com, shop.example.com, and blog.example.net.
- Dedicated SSL Certificate for Subdomains: You may decide to buy separate SSL certificates for every subdomain if you require varying security levels or if you oversee subdomains that contain sensitive information. You may, for instance, have separate SSL certificates for blog.example.com and shop.example.com.
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How to Pick Your Subdomains’ Best SSL Certificate
The structure of your website and the number of subdomains you need to secure will determine which is best for you. Here’s how to make a choice:
For www.example.com, a basic SSL certificate will be adequate if it is only required for the primary domain. It will not, however, cover any subdomains.
If you own more than one subdomain: If you have numerous subdomains that require encryption, such as blog.example.com and shop.example.com, a wildcard SSL certificate is the best option.
This one-time payment secures unlimited subdomains.
The best option for you would be a Multi-Domain SSL certificate if you oversee multiple domains and subdomains. It lowers expenses and complexity by securing numerous domains and subdomains under a single certificate.
For specific requirements: You may want to get a separate SSL certificate for each subdomain if they handle sensitive data or need additional encryption.
The Importance of SSL Certificates for Subdomains in SEO
Securing your subdomains with an SSL certificate can significantly impact your website’s SEO ranking. Google has been using HTTPS as a ranking signal for years, and securing all your subdomains will improve your chances of ranking higher in search results.
Here are some key SEO benefits of using SSL certificates for your subdomains:
- Improved Rankings: Google rewards websites with SSL encryption, and securing your subdomains ensures your entire site is optimized for better search visibility.
- Trust Signals: HTTPS signals to users that your website is secure and trustworthy. This can result in higher click-through rates (CTR) in search engine results.
- Avoid Security Warnings: If you don’t secure your subdomains, users may see a “Not Secure” warning when visiting certain pages. This can hurt your credibility and increase bounce rates.
- Better User Experience: With SSL, users can browse your website securely without worrying about their data being intercepted, which improves overall user experience.
How to Install an SSL Certificate for Subdomains
The process of installing an SSL certificate for your subdomains is similar to installing it on your main domain. Here are the steps:
- Choose Your SSL Certificate: Depending on your needs, select a Wildcard SSL, Multi-Domain SSL, or individual certificates for each subdomain.
- Generate a CSR (Certificate Signing Request): This is a required step for installing the SSL certificate.
- Install the SSL Certificate: Follow the installation instructions provided by the provider or hosting company. Most hosting services offer one-click SSL installation.
- Update Your Website URLs: Ensure that all links, images, and other resources are served via HTTPS. Tools like Really Simple SSL (for WordPress) can help automate this.
Test Your Subdomains:
Use SSL checkers, such as SSL Labs’ SSL Test, to ensure your subdomains are properly secured.
Conclusion
Securing your subdomains with an SSL certificate is essential for maintaining website security, improving SEO, and ensuring trust with your users. Whether you opt for any of the certificate for multiple subdomains or individual certificates for each one, you’ll significantly enhance the protection of sensitive data and boost your site’s credibility.
By choosing the right one and ensuring that all your subdomains are secure, you can reap the benefits of better SEO rankings, enhanced user experience, and a more trustworthy website.
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