Let's Encrypt

Let's Encrypt is a free, automated certificate authority providing SSL/TLS certificates to enable HTTPS adoption.

What is Let's Encrypt?

Let's Encrypt is a free, automated, and open Certificate Authority run by the Internet Security Research Group (ISRG). It provides free domain-validated SSL/TLS certificates, becoming the world's largest CA.

ACME Protocol

Automated Certificate Management Environment (ACME) enables automatic certificate issuance and renewal. Clients like Certbot prove domain control and receive certificates automatically.

Let's Encrypt Features

Free certificates, automated issuance, 90-day validity (encourages automation), and support for wildcard certificates.

Common Misconceptions

"Free means less secure" - Same encryption as paid certificates
"90-day certs are inconvenient" - Automation handles renewal
"Let's Encrypt is only for small sites" - Used by major organizations