SSL Wildcard Certificate: Secure Unlimited Subdomains with One SSL

In a digital world where security and trust are non-negotiable, installing an SSL certificate on your website is no longer optional—it's essential. SSL certificates not only encrypt data but also serve as a visual assurance to your visitors that your website is secure. However, for websites that utilize multiple subdomains, managing separate SSL certificates can quickly become complex and expensive.

This is where the SSL wildcard certificate becomes an invaluable asset. By allowing you to secure your main domain and an unlimited number of first-level subdomains, wildcard SSL certificates offer simplicity, scalability, and cost-efficiency.

In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about SSL wildcard certificates, including how they work, pricing, benefits, and how to choose the best one for your needs.

What is an SSL Wildcard Certificate?

An SSL wildcard certificate is a digital security certificate that encrypts communication between users and your website, securing your primary domain and all first-level subdomains under it with just one certificate. For example, if you purchase a wildcard SSL for *.example.com, it will cover:

• www.example.com
• blog.example.com
• mail.example.com
• store.example.com
• support.example.com

This means you don't need to install a separate certificate for each subdomain, making wildcard SSLs ideal for growing websites, e-commerce stores, SaaS platforms, and enterprises managing multiple services under one domain.

How SSL Wildcard Certificates Work

When you apply for a wildcard SSL certificate, you use an asterisk * in your common name (e.g., *.yourdomain.com) when generating your Certificate Signing Request (CSR). The asterisk acts as a placeholder that automatically secures all first-level subdomains associated with your domain.

Once installed, any new subdomain you add under the main domain is automatically protected, without needing to reissue the certificate.

Types of SSL Wildcard Certificates

While wildcard SSLs primarily differ by the validation level, here are the common types:

1. Domain Validated (DV) Wildcard SSL

• Fast issuance
• Basic domain ownership verification
• Affordable and easy to install
• Ideal for blogs, personal sites, and small businesses

2. Organization Validated (OV) Wildcard SSL

• Includes business verification
• Adds more trust for users
• Suitable for larger businesses or e-commerce sites

Note: Extended Validation (EV) certificates are not available in wildcard format due to stricter verification standards.

Benefits of Using an SSL Wildcard Certificate

✅ Secure Unlimited Subdomains

One of the primary advantages is securing unlimited subdomains under a single certificate—saving time and reducing management complexity.

✅ Cost-Effective

Instead of buying separate certificates for each subdomain, a single wildcard SSL cuts down costs significantly.

✅ Scalability

If you plan to add more subdomains in the future, you won’t need to buy a new certificate every time.

✅ Simplified Management

Managing one certificate means fewer expiration dates and easier renewal, especially useful for system administrators.

✅ SEO and Trust Boost

Wildcard SSLs activate the HTTPS protocol and the padlock icon in browsers, improving user trust and potentially enhancing Google search rankings.

Limitations of SSL Wildcard Certificates

Despite their benefits, wildcard SSLs do have a few limitations:

• No Coverage for Second-Level Subdomains: *.example.com covers mail.example.com but not login.mail.example.com.
• No Extended Validation (EV): Higher-trust EV certificates are not available in wildcard format.
• One Domain Only: A standard wildcard SSL only covers subdomains of a single domain. For multiple domains, you'll need a multi-domain SSL (SAN SSL).

SSL Wildcard Certificate Pricing

The SSL wildcard certificate price depends on:

• Certificate Authority (CA)
• Validation level (DV or OV)
• Features (e.g., warranty, support, issuance time)
• Duration and renewal terms

Average Cost Estimates:

Best Use Cases for SSL Wildcard Certificates

• SaaS Companies: Hosting subdomain-based customer accounts (e.g., client1.domain.com)
• E-Commerce Sites: Securing cart, login, and help sections under subdomains
• Agencies: Managing client sites under their own subdomains
• Educational Institutions: Hosting different department portals like admissions.university.com, library.university.com

How to Install a Wildcard SSL Certificate

1. Generate CSR: Use *.yourdomain.com as the common name when creating a CSR.
2. Purchase and Validate: Choose a CA and complete domain or organization validation.
3. Install Certificate: Apply the certificate to your server using your hosting panel or server terminal.
4. Configure HTTPS: Ensure all subdomains are properly redirected to HTTPS.
5. Test Installation: Use SSL checker tools (e.g., Qualys SSL Labs) to verify.

How to Choose the Right SSL Wildcard Certificate

When choosing your certificate, consider:

• Number of Subdomains: Ensure all your current and planned subdomains fall under the wildcard.
• Validation Level: For public or transactional sites, OV might be better.
• Warranty and Support: Look for a reputable CA with solid customer service and a warranty.
• Budget: Shop around for deals, bulk discounts, or long-term plans.

Conclusion

An SSL wildcard certificate is an invaluable tool for businesses and developers looking to streamline their security strategy while saving money. It offers powerful encryption, simplified management, and scalable protection for your primary domain and all first-level subdomains.

Whether you're building a SaaS platform, managing a university portal, or running multiple services under one brand, investing in a wildcard SSL is a smart and future-proof decision. With prices starting as low as $30/year, there's no reason not to protect your users and gain their trust.