In 2026, every single website on the internet needs an SSL certificate (the padlock icon in your browser’s address bar). Without it, Google Chrome displays an alarming “Not Secure” warning to every visitor. But why are legacy hosts still charging £40 to £80 a year for it?
The Let’s Encrypt revolution
Years ago, SSL certificates required manual identity verification and cost money to issue. In 2016, the non-profit Internet Security Research Group launched Let’s Encrypt, providing free, automated wildcard SSL certificates to everyone. Modern hosts automate this renewal process invisibly.
A legacy tax on unsuspecting owners
Hosts that charge annual SSL fees are charging you for an automated API call that costs them zero pounds. It is pure margin at the customer’s expense.
SSL is always included at WebSavers
Every plan on WebSavers comes with an automated, auto-renewing SSL certificate installed out of the box at £0 extra cost. Check out our hosting features.