RapidSSL Wildcard + Automate: Automated SSL for Unlimited Subdomains
RapidSSL Wildcard + Automate includes two ways to automate your SSL. Choose AutoInstall SSL® for guided, plug-and-play automation with built-in monitoring and failure alerts, or ACME for flexible automation across more environments. Both handle issuance, validation, installation, and renewal automatically after a one-time setup. RapidSSL Wildcard secures unlimited subdomains under a single base domain: shop.example.com, portal.example.com, email.example.com, and any others you create.
- Eliminate manual renewals with fully automated certificate updates.
- Set it up once, your site stays online and secure indefinitely
- Prevent downtime by avoiding certificate expirations
- Handle shorter SSL lifespans with no extra work
Automate the entire SSL certificate lifecycle:
- Issuance & validation — Domain ownership is verified automatically via file-based (HTTP) or DNS-based validation.
- Installation — The certificate is deployed directly to your server (Apache, NGINX, or IIS) with no manual file placement or command-line steps.
- Renewal — Renewal begins automatically 28-30 days before expiration. No calendar reminders, no manual reinstallation, no gaps in coverage.
Why it matters
SSL certificate validity periods are shrinking which means more frequent certificate renewals. With RapidSSL + Automate, renewals happen automatically, so your certificate is always up to date and your site stays secure.
Important
DNS validation required. Wildcard certificates cannot use file-based (HTTP) validation. DNS-based validation is mandatory for all wildcard issuance and renewal. Make sure your domain uses a supported DNS provider before purchasing.
Two Ways to Automate Your SSL Certificate
Both ACME and AutoInstall SSL® are included with RapidSSL + Automate, so you can choose the automation method that best fits your needs and environment.
The easiest way to fully automate SSL on Windows and Linux servers. Install the agent once with a copy and paste command. After that, every issuance, renewal, and revocation replacement runs hands-off. Includes built-in monitoring and email alerts in case of automation failure or a missed renewal. Best for small to mid-sized businesses and server admins who want SSL on autopilot.
Supported environments:
- Apache on Linux
- NGINX on Linux
- IIS on Windows
- Root/admin access required
ACME automates SSL certificate issuance, installation, and renewal across a variety of environments, from web servers and containers to control panels and custom platforms. It's the right choice if you need flexibility beyond what AutoInstall SSL® supports.
Best for technically experienced users who want flexibility and control over their automation are comfortable with the setup and configuration involved.
Built for Your Existing Infrastructure
- Web servers
NGINX, Apache, IIS, Caddy + More - VPS & cloud
AWS EC2, Lightsail, DigitalOcean, Google Cloud, Azure, Linode, and more - Containers
Docker, Kubernetes - Control panels
cPanel - Custom environments
ACME libraries for Go, Python, .NET, PHP, and more
Security & Encryption
RapidSSL Wildcard certificates support encryption strength up to 256-bit—the strongest symmetric encryption available in SSL/TLS protocols.
Mobile & Browser Compatibility
Universal compatibility across all major browsers (Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge, Opera) and current iOS and Android devices.
Product Specifications
- Covers unlimited subdomains under one base domain (e.g., *.yourdomain.com secures shop.yourdomain.com, mail.yourdomain.com, etc.)
- Instant issuance (1-5 minutes)
- Domain Validation (DV)
- Encryption strength up to 256-bit
- 99% browser compatibility
- Free site seal included
- Supports AutoInstall SSL® and ACME
- Automated file-based or DNS-based domain validation
- Daily certificate monitoring with automatic renewal 28 days prior to expiration
- Free unlimited server licensing
- $10,000 warranty protection
- 30-day money-back guarantee
Wildcard Certificate Coverage
A wildcard certificate secures unlimited subdomains on a single level. For example, *.yourdomain.com covers:
- shop.yourdomain.com
- mail.yourdomain.com
- portal.yourdomain.com
- Any other first-level subdomain you create
It does not cover second-level subdomains (e.g., test.shop.yourdomain.com would require a separate certificate.)
Automation Specifications
AutoInstall SSL supports Apache, NGINX, & IIS. See full technical specs. ACME: works with any ACME compatible client/system. Supported DNS providers varies by ACME client. See ACME tutorials.
DNS validation required: Wildcard certificates cannot use file-based (HTTP) validation, so DNS-based validation is mandatory for all wildcard issuance and renewal. Review the specifications above to be sure your domain uses a supported DNS provider.