In 2024, obtaining a free SSL certificate with a half-year validity period can be achieved through several methods. Here's a concise overview of how you can secure one:
- Let's Encrypt: Although Let's Encrypt typically offers certificates with a 90-day validity, you can renew them to effectively cover a half-year period. Use automation tools like Certbot to simplify the process of obtaining and renewing certificates.
- 阿里云 (Alibaba Cloud): Alibaba Cloud provides a free SSL certificate application process, allowing users to apply for up to 20 free single-domain SSL certificates, each valid for 3 months. You can renew these certificates to cover a half-year period.
- JoySSL: Despite the shift away from year-long free SSL certificates in the cloud services, JoySSL continues to offer free SSL certificates for government and educational editions with a validity of up to one year, which can also be used for half-year coverage.
- Buypass: Buypass is a Certificate Authority that offers free SSL certificates with a validity of 180 days, which aligns with a half-year period and supports automatic renewal.
- ZeroSSL: ZeroSSL provides free SSL certificates that are similar to Let's Encrypt but with a more user-friendly interface and additional features. You can obtain a certificate with a 90-day validity and set up automatic renewals.
- SSL For Free: Based on Let's Encrypt, SSL For Free offers a simple interface to generate and download free SSL certificates, which can be renewed every 90 days to maintain coverage for a half-year.
- Freenom: Freenom offers free domain registration services and supports obtaining free SSL certificates through services like Let's Encrypt, which can be renewed every 90 days.
- Get HTTPS for Free: This tool simplifies the process of generating Let's Encrypt certificates with a user-friendly interface, allowing you to obtain and renew certificates every 90 days.
- Google Cloud Platform (GCP): GCP offers free SSL certificates through Google Cloud Load Balancing service, which can be used for a half-year period before needing renewal.
- Community-driven Initiatives: Some online communities and forums may offer free SSL certificates or guide you on how to obtain them, often with community support.
By leveraging these methods, you can secure a free SSL certificate for your website with a half-year validity period, ensuring your site's security and maintaining user trust without incurring additional costs.