GoDaddy Wildcard SSL vs Sectigo Wildcard SSL: A Full Comparison

Wildcard SSL certificates are essential for businesses that operate multiple subdomains. Whether you’re running an ecommerce store, SaaS application, or corporate website, securing all subdomains under one certificate streamlines security management. In 2025, two major providers dominate the wildcard SSL market—GoDaddy and Sectigo. While GoDaddy is a household name in domains and hosting, Sectigo (formerly Comodo) is one of the most widely used certificate authorities worldwide.

This detailed comparison will help you decide between GoDaddy Wildcard SSL and Sectigo Wildcard SSL, focusing on pricing, features, support, encryption standards, and more.

1. Pricing Comparison (2025)

When it comes to SSL certificates, pricing plays a major role—especially for businesses managing multiple domains.

GoDaddy’s pricing tends to be on the higher side, especially during renewals. Sectigo Wildcard SSL, on the other hand, is significantly more affordable, especially when purchased through authorized resellers like CompareCheapSSL.com.

✅ Winner: Sectigo — A more cost-effective wildcard SSL solution, both initially and over time.

2. Subdomain Coverage

Both GoDaddy and Sectigo offer wildcard SSL certificates that secure an unlimited number of first-level subdomains.

Examples of what’s covered:

• www.example.com
• mail.example.com
• shop.example.com

Neither covers deeper subdomains like login.shop.example.com. This limitation is standard across wildcard SSLs.

⚖️ Tie: Equal subdomain support from both providers. Perfect for managing multiple subdomain properties under one main domain.

3. Validation Type

Wildcard SSL certificates from both GoDaddy and Sectigo are Domain Validated (DV). This means they only require domain ownership verification—typically completed via email or DNS.

Domain validation makes issuance quick and straightforward, but doesn’t display company information in the browser, as OV or EV certificates do.

⚖️ Tie: Fast issuance and minimal documentation required with both DV SSLs.

4. Security & Encryption Standards

Both SSLs provide top-tier encryption that complies with modern security standards.

These security protocols are sufficient for all types of online businesses, including those handling payments or customer data.

⚖️ Tie: Equally strong encryption and HTTPS protection for both certificates.

5. Warranty & Trust Level

SSL warranties protect you in case of certificate failure or breach due to CA negligence.

While Sectigo offers a respectable $500K warranty, GoDaddy’s $1M coverage gives larger businesses additional peace of mind.

✅ Winner: GoDaddy — Better warranty makes it more suitable for businesses with higher risk exposure.

6. Customer Support and Documentation

Quality support can make a huge difference during installation, troubleshooting, or renewal.

GoDaddy offers 24/7 phone support, which is especially valuable for U.S.-based businesses. Sectigo relies more heavily on ticket-based support and has less consistent phone support.

✅ Winner: GoDaddy — If live human support is a priority, GoDaddy comes out on top.

7. Platform Compatibility

Both wildcard SSL options are compatible with almost every major web server and hosting platform.

Supported platforms include:

• Apache
• NGINX
• Microsoft IIS
• cPanel & WHM
• Plesk
• DirectAdmin
• Shared, VPS, and Dedicated Hosting environments

⚖️ Tie: Universal compatibility ensures seamless deployment for most developers.

8. Reissuance & Refund Policy

Need to change your domain or regenerate your certificate? Both CAs offer unlimited reissues within the certificate validity period.

⚖️ Tie: Flexibility on reissues and full refunds within the first 30 days of purchase.

9. Pros & Cons Summary

GoDaddy Wildcard SSL

Pros:

• Strong U.S. brand recognition and trust
• High warranty coverage ($1M)
• 24/7 phone and chat support

Cons:

• High renewal pricing
• Only Domain Validation (DV)
• Doesn’t support 2nd-level subdomains

Sectigo Wildcard SSL

Pros:

• More budget-friendly pricing
• Reseller availability allows deeper discounts
• Industry-standard encryption and wide compatibility

Cons:

• Warranty limited to $500K
• Less direct phone support compared to GoDaddy

Final Verdict: Which Should You Choose?

Overall Recommendation:

If your priority is customer support, brand reputation, and high warranty coverage, then GoDaddy Wildcard SSL is a great fit—especially for enterprise or U.S.-based companies.

However, if you’re a startup, agency, or budget-conscious business seeking solid wildcard SSL protection at a lower price, Sectigo Wildcard SSL offers unbeatable value in 2025.

FAQs About GoDaddy vs Sectigo Wildcard SSL (2025)

How does GoDaddy Wildcard SSL pricing compare to Sectigo Wildcard SSL?

GoDaddy often prices its wildcard SSL higher than Sectigo. Sectigo is known for offering more competitive deals and discounts through resellers, making it appealing for budget-focused organizations. However, pricing can change with promotions or based on resellers, so it’s smart to compare current offers.

Are there differences in encryption strength or browser compatibility?

Both GoDaddy and Sectigo Wildcard SSL certificates offer 256-bit encryption and SHA-2 hashing, which are industry standards. They are accepted by nearly all modern browsers and mobile devices, ensuring broad compatibility for visitors.

Which certificate offers faster issuance: GoDaddy or Sectigo Wildcard SSL?

Sectigo is typically recognized for rapid issuance, sometimes completing domain validation and issuing certificates in minutes to hours. GoDaddy issuance can take a similar time, but factors like additional verification steps or support workload may impact timing.

How many subdomains can I secure with GoDaddy or Sectigo Wildcard SSL?

Both providers allow you to secure unlimited first-level subdomains under your primary domain. If you need to secure more than one domain or require second-level subdomain support, you’ll need a multi-domain (SAN) wildcard or another certificate type.

Can I install my wildcard SSL on multiple servers with GoDaddy and Sectigo?

Yes, both GoDaddy and Sectigo wildcard SSL certificates can be installed on multiple servers. You may need to export and securely transfer the certificate and private key to each server, especially in load-balanced environments.

What are the warranty and site seal differences?

Both certificates include a warranty, protecting you or your users against certain financial losses due to certificate mis-issuance. GoDaddy and Sectigo both offer trust site seals, but Sectigo’s seal is more frequently advertised as dynamic, while GoDaddy’s may appear as a static image.

Does either provider offer multi-domain wildcard SSL certificates?

Sectigo offers multi-domain (SAN) wildcard options, allowing you to secure multiple domains and their subdomains with a single certificate. GoDaddy’s wildcard solutions typically cover only a single domain and its subdomains, not multiple different domains.

Are there notable differences in renewal prices?

Sectigo is usually more consistent and affordable in renewal pricing, especially through resellers. GoDaddy renewals may be higher than initial purchase prices, so always check renewal terms before purchase.

What is the customer support experience like with GoDaddy versus Sectigo?

GoDaddy is well-known for 24/7 support with a call center–style approach, supporting a broad range of website products. Sectigo support is ticket-based and may feel more technical, but many users report quick and knowledgeable responses—especially when purchased through major resellers.

Are there any unique features or added benefits with either provider?

Sectigo often provides deeper reseller integrations, more flexible multi-domain wildcard options, and a dynamic trust seal. GoDaddy appeals to customers who already manage domains and hosting with GoDaddy, making management simple within one platform.

Why choose Sectigo over GoDaddy, or vice versa?

Choose Sectigo for competitive pricing, extra flexibility (multi-domain wildcards), and wide global use. Opt for GoDaddy if you value single-dashboard management across your hosting, domains, and SSL, or if you prefer phone-based customer support.

How long does it take to get a GoDaddy Wildcard SSL vs Sectigo Wildcard SSL?

GoDaddy Wildcard SSL typically offers faster issuance times, sometimes within minutes for domain validation certificates.

Sectigo Wildcard SSL also offers fast issuance but may take a little longer than GoDaddy for validation, especially if extended validation (EV) is required.

Can I use GoDaddy Wildcard SSL or Sectigo Wildcard SSL for both internal and external subdomains?

Yes, both GoDaddy and Sectigo Wildcard SSL can secure both internal and external subdomains. As long as the subdomains fall under the primary domain, the Wildcard SSL certificate will work for them, including subdomains like dev.example.com, staging.example.com, and www.example.com.

How can I renew my GoDaddy Wildcard SSL and Sectigo Wildcard SSL certificate?

For GoDaddy Wildcard SSL, you can easily renew the certificate through your GoDaddy account dashboard, where they provide reminders ahead of expiration.

Sectigo Wildcard SSL also offers a straightforward renewal process, either through your Sectigo account or by contacting your SSL reseller.