What is the difference between Multi-Domain and Wildcard SSL Certificates?
Difference between Multi-Domain and Wildcard SSL Certificates
Both Multi-Domain and Wildcard SSL certificates allow you to secure multiple domains or subdomains with a single certificate, but they work in different ways. The choice depends on your specific needs and website structure.
Wildcard SSL Certificate 🛡️
A Wildcard certificate is designed to secure the main domain and an unlimited number of subdomains of one level. It is marked with an asterisk before the domain name, for example:
*.example.com
This means the certificate covers:
- www.example.com
- blog.example.com
- shop.example.com
and so on.
Advantages:
- Ideal for companies with many subdomains.
- Easy to manage since you don’t need to buy a separate certificate for each new subdomain.
Disadvantages:
- Cannot secure subdomains of another level (*.sub.example.com).
- Does not cover unrelated domains (example.net).
Multi-Domain SSL Certificate (SAN) 🌐
A Multi-Domain certificate, also known as SAN (Subject Alternative Name), allows you to secure multiple different domains and subdomains. For example, one certificate can include:
- example.com
- example.net
- example.org
- blog.example.com
Depending on the provider, you can add up to 250 domains and subdomains.
Advantages:
- Very flexible — you can secure different websites with one certificate.
- Saves time and money since you don’t need to manage many certificates.
Disadvantages:
- Every new domain must be added explicitly.
- If you forget to include a domain, it won’t be protected.
Comparison
| Feature | Wildcard SSL | Multi-Domain (SAN) SSL |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Protects one domain and all its subdomains | Protects multiple different domains and subdomains |
| Example | *.example.com | example.com, example.net, blog.example.com |
| Flexibility | Limited to one main domain | High — can secure multiple domains |
| Cost | More expensive than a standard SSL, but cost-effective for many subdomains | May be more expensive than Wildcard if many different domains are added |