Let’s Encrypt

Let's Encrypt provides free Domain Validated (DV) SSL certificates, removing financial barriers to website encryption. This allows individuals and small businesses to secure their websites without incurring certificate costs, fostering a more secure web environment for everyone. This feature is particularly beneficial for those just starting out or with limited budgets.

The use of the ACME protocol allows for automated certificate issuance and renewal via tools like Certbot. This significantly reduces the manual effort involved in managing SSL certificates, simplifying the process and minimizing the risk of certificate expiration. The automation ensures continuous security without constant intervention.

Let's Encrypt focuses solely on Domain Validation, streamlining the verification process. While it doesn't offer OV or EV certificates, DV is sufficient for many websites. The automated domain validation process is quick and efficient, making it easy for website owners to prove they control the domain.

The support for wildcard certificates enables users to secure a domain and all its subdomains with a single certificate. This simplifies certificate management for websites with multiple subdomains, reducing the administrative overhead and ensuring consistent security across the entire domain. DNS validation is required.

Let's Encrypt certificates are trusted by all major browsers, ensuring seamless compatibility for website visitors. This widespread trust is crucial for avoiding browser security warnings and maintaining user confidence. Signed by ISRG Root X1, which is widely trusted by all major browsers and operating systems.