SSL Certificates Lifespan Set To Decrease for Security Reasons

You may have read an article or seen a headline talking about changes coming to SSL certificates that use words like post quantum, NIST standards, and cryptography. We'll help you understand what is changing and whether it is something you need to be concerned about.

An SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) certificate helps protect many parts of your business. Your website uses SSL to keep visitor information secure, phone systems use it to protect calls, and firewalls rely on it to keep your network safe. It can also help secure email and internal systems. In simple terms, SSL keeps your company’s data private and your technology running safely.

Historically, SSL certificates could last up to about a year. However, industry leaders, including major browsers and security organizations, have agreed to significantly shorten that timeframe. Beginning in 2026, certificate lifespans will be reduced to 200 days, then 100 days in 2027, and eventually just 47 days by 2029.

So why the change? Shorter lifespans improve security. If a certificate is ever compromised, it will only be valid for a much shorter window of time, reducing risk. These changes also support the industry’s shift toward stronger encryption standards and prepare for emerging technologies like post-quantum cryptography, which will play a key role in future cybersecurity.

What does this mean for you? SSL certificates will need to be renewed more frequently. As a result, our team may be reaching out more often to ensure your website remains secure and uninterrupted. Managing these updates manually is becoming less practical across the industry, which is why proactive monitoring and renewal processes are more important than ever.

Rest assured, we’re staying on top of these changes so you don’t have to. If your website uses an SSL certificate, we will notify you when action is needed and walk you through your options to keep everything running smoothly and securely. If you have any questions about this upcoming change, reach out to our sales team to learn how we can support you in this transition.