Let's Encrypt
Let's Encrypt is a free, automated, and open certificate authority (CA) that provides SSL/TLS certificates to enable HTTPS encryption for websites. It simplifies the process of obtaining and renewing certificates through the ACME (Automated Certificate Management Environment) protocol, making secure web connections more accessible. As a service run by the Internet Security Research Group (ISRG), it aims to create a more secure and privacy-respecting web by promoting widespread encryption.
Developers should use Let's Encrypt when they need to secure websites with HTTPS without the cost and complexity of traditional certificate authorities, such as for personal projects, small businesses, or development environments. It is particularly valuable for automating certificate issuance and renewal in DevOps workflows, using tools like Certbot, to ensure continuous security compliance and reduce manual overhead. This is essential for meeting modern web standards, improving SEO rankings, and protecting user data from interception.