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)

Q1: What is the difference between GoDaddy and Sectigo Wildcard SSL?
A: GoDaddy is known for its premium support and brand reputation, offering a $1M warranty. Sectigo, on the other hand, is a more budget-friendly alternative with strong encryption and wide compatibility.

Q2: Which wildcard SSL is cheaper in 2025?
A: Sectigo Wildcard SSL is significantly cheaper than GoDaddy, especially through authorized resellers.

Q3: Does Sectigo Wildcard SSL offer 24/7 support?
A: Sectigo provides chat and ticket-based support but does not offer 24/7 phone support like GoDaddy.

Q4: Is GoDaddy Wildcard SSL good for ecommerce websites?
A: Yes, it offers strong encryption, HTTPS support, and a high warranty, making it a good option for ecommerce businesses.

Q5: Which wildcard SSL is better for small businesses?
A: Sectigo is generally better for small businesses due to its affordability and flexibility.