Your website started as a single domain. Then came the online shop, the client portal, the blog and the staging site. Before long, you’re juggling a separate certificate for each one, each with its own price tag and renewal date. There’s a simpler way. A wildcard SSL certificate secures your main domain and all its subdomains with just one certificate. This guide explains how it works, where it shines, its limits, and how FastSSLArena helps you get set up.
What is a wildcard SSL certificate?
A wildcard SSL certificate protects one domain and an unlimited number of subdomains at the same level. It gets its name from the asterisk (*) in the certificate, which acts as a placeholder for any subdomain.
For example, a certificate issued to *.yourbusiness.co.za covers:
- shop.yourbusiness.co.za
- portal.yourbusiness.co.za
- blog.yourbusiness.co.za
- mail.yourbusiness.co.za
- Any new subdomain you add in future
Most wildcard certificates also cover the main domain, yourbusiness.co.za, at no extra cost. Wildcards are one of several types of SSL certificates, and they’re built for businesses that grow.
How a wildcard certificate works
The asterisk covers exactly one level of subdomain. Here’s what that means in practice:
| Address | Covered? | Why |
| shop.yourbusiness.co.za | Yes | First-level subdomain |
| za.yourbusiness.co.za | Yes | First-level subdomain |
| yourbusiness.co.za | Usually | Most brands include the main domain |
| eu.shop.yourbusiness.co.za | No | Second-level subdomain |
| yourotherbrand.com | No | A different domain |
Need to cover several different domains as well? A multi-domain wildcard certificate combines both features in one.
The benefits of a wildcard SSL certificate
- Unlimited subdomains. Secure as many subdomains as you need, with no extra cost per subdomain.
- Lower costs. One wildcard certificate usually costs less than buying several single-domain certificates.
- Instant coverage for new subdomains. Launch a new portal or regional site, and it’s already covered.
- One renewal to track. With certificate lifespans shrinking, fewer certificates means fewer renewals and fewer chances to miss one.
- Simpler management. One certificate, one expiry date and one set of records.
- Consistent security. Every subdomain gets the same level of protection, so no part of your site is left exposed.
Who should use a wildcard SSL certificate?
A wildcard certificate is ideal if your business uses, or plans to use, several subdomains. Common examples include:
- Online businesses with separate shop, blog and account areas.
- Service providers running client portals, help desks or booking systems.
- Companies expanding across Africa with regional subdomains, such as za., ke. or ng.
- SaaS platforms that give each customer their own subdomain.
- Development teams using staging, testing and demo environments.
Wildcard vs single-domain vs multi-domain
| Single-domain | Wildcard | Multi-domain | |
| Covers | One domain | One domain plus unlimited subdomains | Several different domains |
| New subdomains | Need a new certificate | Covered automatically | Must be added |
| Validation levels | DV, OV, EV | DV, OV | DV, OV, EV |
| Best for | One simple website | Growing sites with subdomains | Multiple brands or domains |
Wildcard limitations to know
- One level only. A wildcard won’t cover second-level subdomains like eu.shop.yourbusiness.co.za.
- No EV option. Industry rules don’t allow EV wildcards, so you can choose DV or OV. Learn more about DV, OV and EV validation.
- Shared private key. If you install the same certificate on many servers, one compromised server puts every subdomain at risk.
- Single domain only. To secure different domain names, you’ll need a multi-domain or multi-domain wildcard certificate.
How to get a wildcard SSL certificate
- Choose your validation level. Pick DV for speed or OV to show your verified business name.
- Generate a CSR. Enter your domain with an asterisk, for example *.yourbusiness.co.za, as the common name. FastSSLArena’s CSR tool formats it correctly for you.
- Complete validation. Wildcard domain checks are usually done by email or DNS record. OV also needs your company details.
- Install the certificate. Install it on each server that hosts one of your subdomains.
- Test every subdomain. Check for the padlock on each one, and run a scan with the Qualys SSL Labs test to confirm your setup.
Wildcard best practices
- Protect your private key. Store it securely and limit who can access it.
- Limit where you install it. Only deploy the certificate on servers you control and trust.
- Separate high-risk areas. Consider a dedicated certificate for sensitive subdomains, such as payment pages.
- Keep a record. Track every server that uses the certificate, so nothing is missed at renewal.
Frequently asked questions about wildcard SSL certificates
Does a wildcard SSL certificate cover the main domain?
Most do. Brands typically include the main domain alongside its subdomains, but check the product details before you buy.
How many subdomains can a wildcard certificate secure?
An unlimited number, as long as they sit at the same level under your domain.
Does a wildcard cover sub-subdomains?
No. A certificate for *.yourbusiness.co.za won’t cover eu.shop.yourbusiness.co.za. You’d need a separate certificate for that level.
Can I get an EV wildcard certificate?
No. Industry rules don’t allow it. Choose an OV wildcard, or an EV multi-domain certificate if you need EV.
Can I use one wildcard certificate on several servers?
Yes. Many brands allow you to install the same wildcard certificate on multiple servers. Just keep the private key secure.
How FastSSLArena helps with wildcard SSL certificates
A wildcard certificate simplifies your security. FastSSLArena simplifies getting one.
- Wildcard options from top brands. Compare DigiCert, Sectigo, Thawte, GeoTrust and RapidSSL wildcards in one place.
- Help choosing the right fit. Not sure whether you need a wildcard, multi-domain or both? We’ll help you decide.
- Correctly formatted CSRs. Our built-in tool sets up your wildcard CSR in a few clicks, so you avoid common errors.
- Validation guidance. We walk you through email, DNS or company checks, so issuance stays on track.
- Installation support. Get help deploying your certificate across multiple servers.
- Discounted pricing and easy renewals. Secure every subdomain at a competitive rate, and renew in minutes.
One certificate. Every subdomain. Zero hassle.
Get your wildcard SSL certificate at FastSSLArena today.