The internet security industry is introducing an important update to how SSL certificates work. While the change is technical behind the scenes, we want to make sure our clients understand what’s happening and what it means for their websites.
The good news: your website security will continue to work normally, and these changes are designed to make the web safer.
What is SSL?
SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) is the technology that encrypts the connection between a website and its visitors. When a site has SSL enabled, you’ll see the padlock icon in the browser and the address will begin with https://.
SSL helps protect information such as login details, contact forms, and other sensitive data.
Because of its importance, SSL has become a standard requirement for modern websites.
What’s changing?
From 12 March 2026, SSL certificates issued by certificate authorities worldwide will have a maximum lifespan of 200 days (just under 7 months).
Previously, SSL certificates typically lasted up to one year before needing renewal.
This is an industry-wide change and applies to all hosting providers and certificate authorities.
Why is the industry making this change?
The change was approved by the CA/Browser Forum, a global group made up of certificate authorities, browser vendors, and technology companies.
Shorter certificate lifespans improve security in several ways:
- Reduced risk if a security key is compromised
- Faster replacement of outdated encryption
- More accurate verification of domain ownership
- Encourages automated renewal systems
In simple terms, it ensures website security certificates are updated more frequently, which helps keep the internet safer.
What does this mean for your website?
For most website owners, very little will change.
- SSL certificates issued before March 12, 2026 will remain valid until they expire.
- New SSL certificates issued after this date will last 200 days per installation.
- Certificates purchased for longer terms (such as 1–5 years) will simply be reactivated periodically during that time.
Your website will remain protected for the full period you have paid for.
What happens when the certificate reaches 200 days?
Before the certificate reaches its renewal point, you will receive advance notifications and simple instructions for reactivation.
Over time, the industry is also moving toward fully automated renewals, which will make the process seamless.
SSL services available
Stream offers several levels of SSL encryption depending on your website needs:
DV – Domain Validation
Confirms ownership of the domain name.
OV – Organisation Validation
Verifies the organisation behind the website using public records.
EV – Extended Validation
Provides the highest level of verification, confirming the legal identity controlling the domain.
All options provide encrypted connections that help protect your visitors and build trust.
In summary
The move to shorter SSL lifespans is part of a broader effort to improve internet security. While the certificates themselves will refresh more frequently, the overall service and protection for your website will continue as normal.
If you have any questions about SSL or your hosting services, feel free to get in touch.