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WP SSL Redirect

By Rehmat Alam

Security & Privacy / SSL & HTTPS Management

Reviewed by Omar Dabbas

Trusted WordPress expert with 20+ years of experience evaluating plugins for the WP ecosystem.

WP SSL Redirect Review - In-Depth Analysis

A tiny plugin to force SSL on WordPress websites using 301 redirects for SEO.

Performance Overview

WPS Score

6.68/10

User Rating

4.2/5 (based on 5+ reviews)

Active Installations

600+

Update Frequency

Below Average It is calculated using the weighted average of same category plugins.

Security Score

1 / 10 (Very Low Risk) It is calculated using the weighted average of all versions.

What It Does

WP SSL Redirect simply forces the SSL on your WordPress website by applying a 301 redirect from the HTTP path to HTTPS path. Please note that this plugin does not install or configure any SSL certificate, instead it simply applies a 301 redirect to force the SSL on a WordPress website where a valid SSL is already properly installed.

This plugin includes options to force www or non-www URLs and has undergone several updates to improve functionality and fix bugs. It is designed to work seamlessly with WordPress installations, ensuring that your site remains secure and optimized for search engines.

Comparing to Alternatives

WP SSL Redirect is a straightforward plugin focused on forcing SSL redirects without complex configurations. It competes with several alternatives that offer similar SSL redirection capabilities with varying additional features.

Top alternatives

Strengths

Simple and effective SSL redirection without manual .htaccess edits
Lightweight with minimal configuration needed
Reliable 301 redirects for non-www to www or vice versa
No known security vulnerabilities reported
Free to use without upsells

Weaknesses

Limited features compared to more comprehensive SSL plugins
No pro version or advanced support options
Reported issues with deactivation causing redirect loops
Lack of developer responsiveness to support requests

User Sentiment Analysis

With an overall rating of 4.2 from 5 reviews, most users praise the plugin's simplicity and effectiveness. However, a minority report critical issues related to deactivation and support.

Positive highlights

"Works perfectly" - johnny58
"The best one, what I was looking for." - Sohail Ahmed
"Exactly what I was looking for: a dead-simple way to force 301 redirects" - crouchback
"Does what it says it does!" - unaomnia

Common complaints

Plugin causes automatic redirecting issues after deactivation, preventing WordPress login and redirecting to unrelated pages
Lack of response from the author regarding removal of plugin data or support requests

Weaknesses

No official support or timely developer responses
Potential for redirect loops or site lockout if not handled carefully
Limited troubleshooting guidance available

Who Should Use This?

Best for

Users seeking a lightweight, no-frills plugin to enforce SSL redirects without editing server files, especially those comfortable with basic WordPress management.

Not ideal for

Users who require robust support, advanced SSL management features, or who are concerned about potential redirect issues upon deactivation should consider alternatives.

Pricing & Value

Free version includes

The free version includes all core features needed to force SSL redirects simply and effectively without any cost.

Final Verdict

WP SSL Redirect is a solid choice for users who want a straightforward, effective solution to enforce SSL redirects without complex setup or cost. Its simplicity and lack of known security issues make it appealing for basic needs.

However, the plugin's lack of advanced features, absence of a pro version, and reported issues with deactivation and support responsiveness mean it may not suit all users. Those needing more comprehensive SSL management or reliable support might explore the listed alternatives.