Not all SSL certificates are created equal. While both Wildcard and Regular (Single-Domain) SSL certificates protect websites using HTTPS encryption, they serve very different purposes.
If you’re wondering which one is best for your website (or your client’s), this guide will help you decide—without the jargon.
🔐 What Is a Regular SSL Certificate?
A Regular SSL certificate (also called Single-Domain SSL) secures only one specific domain.
Example:
If you install SSL for www.example.com, it won’t cover:
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blog.example.com -
mail.example.com -
store.example.com
You would need separate SSLs for each subdomain.
✅ Best for:
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Simple websites
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Single-domain blogs or business pages
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Sites that don’t use subdomains
📌 This type of SSL is included for free with all PLiKhost hosting plans.
🌐 What Is a Wildcard SSL Certificate?
A Wildcard SSL certificate secures your main domain and all of its subdomains—with just one certificate.
Example:
A Wildcard SSL for *.example.com covers:
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www.example.com -
blog.example.com -
shop.example.com -
client.example.com -
…and so on
No need to buy, install, or renew multiple certificates.
✅ Best for:
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Websites with multiple subdomains
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SaaS platforms, client portals, multi-region sites
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Agencies managing many branded sections under one domain
💡 Wildcard = one SSL to cover them all.
🔍 Key Differences at a Glance
| Feature | Regular SSL | Wildcard SSL |
|---|---|---|
| Domains Covered | 1 main domain only | Main domain + unlimited subdomains |
| Example Coverage | www.example.com |
*.example.com |
| Subdomain Support | ❌ | ✅ |
| Cost | Free or low-cost | Paid (higher) |
| Setup Complexity | Simple | Slightly more advanced |
| Best For | Blogs, portfolios, SMBs | SaaS, agencies, businesses with subdomains |
🛡️ Do Wildcard and Regular SSL Offer the Same Encryption?
Yes. Both provide:
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Strong HTTPS encryption
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Padlock icon in the browser
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Google SEO benefits
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Visitor trust
The difference lies only in coverage, not security strength.
💰 What About Cost?
At PLiKhost:
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Free Regular SSL is included with all hosting plans (via Let’s Encrypt)
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Wildcard SSL is available as a paid upgrade if you need broader subdomain coverage
🧾 Need a Wildcard SSL? Just contact PLiKhost support for a quote and fast setup.
🤔 Which One Should You Choose?
| If you… | Then… |
|---|---|
Only use one domain (e.g., www.mysite.com) |
✅ Use Regular SSL (Free) |
| Plan to use multiple subdomains | 🔄 Upgrade to Wildcard SSL |
| Run a SaaS, eCommerce, or client dashboard | 🔄 Use Wildcard SSL |
| Want simple and free protection | ✅ Regular SSL is enough |
✅ Final Thoughts
Choosing the right SSL certificate isn’t just about security—it’s about scalability.
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A Regular SSL is perfect for most small sites.
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A Wildcard SSL is a smart long-term move if you plan to expand your domain structure or serve different sections under subdomains.
🟢 Not sure which one you need?
Contact PLiKhost and we’ll help you pick the right SSL solution for your goals.
