Ultimate Guide to Types of SSL Certificates 

Establishing credibility with your customers and site visitors is crucial. In order to establish trust in today’s digital landscape, it is crucial to show that you genuinely prioritise the well-being of your users. It is essential to prioritise the security of personal information and sensitive data to safeguard against cybercriminals. Using various types of SSL certificates is one method to accomplish this.

Taking advantage of an SSL/TLS certificate ensures the creation of a secure website, instilling a sense of comfort and confidence in its users. Based on the validation type of the certificate, it allows you to verify and authenticate your domain and/or organisation.

SSL certificates are files that are installed on web servers to securely encrypt data. It facilitates secure communication of data between a server and users’ browsers.

SSL certificates are essential for payment pages and login forms, providing millions of websites with enhanced security to prevent unauthorised access to sensitive data. In addition, they ensure their content is not flagged by Google as unsafe.

Discover the comprehensive guide to SSL certificates, which will provide you with an in-depth understanding of the ten different types of SSL certificates. This guide will assist you in determining the most suitable certificate for your specific needs.

Just a quick note: a website that is SSL-secured will have the HTTPS prefix in its web address. You will also notice a padlock icon positioned on the left side of the address bar in your browser. Clicking on the padlock will provide you with additional information about the website and the organisation behind it.

What are the various categories of SSL certificates available?

To gain a deeper understanding of each specific type of SSL certificate, you can either click on the links provided below or scroll down manually. Every section will provide you with valuable information on how each certificate is utilised to authenticate and safeguard your domain, organisation, multiple domains, and/or subdomains.

• Domain Validation SSL Certificate (DV SSL)
• Organization Validation SSL Certificate (OV SSL)
• EV (Extended Validation) SSL Certificate
• SSL certificates for a specific domain
• SSL Certificate for Multiple Domains Wildcard Option SSL Certificate Multi Domain Wildcard SSL Certificate

An Overview of SSL Certificates

SSL certificate types vary based on two fundamental parameters:

Verification. The thoroughness of the validation process that website administrators undergo before being granted a certificate by a Certificate Authority (CA). Validation can vary widely, from minimal to highly thorough. Increasing the level of validation will enhance the authority of your website.

The quantity of domains for which it is suitable. You have the option to choose between a single-domain SSL certificate or one that can protect multiple domains, depending on your specific needs.

The following sections provide a more detailed explanation of each type.

SSL Certifications Based on Validation Types

All SSL certificates provide identical levels of encryption. Nevertheless, the extent to which a CA undergoes validation to authenticate the identity of a website administrator can differ.

The level of checks varies based on the website’s scope and the type of data it requires from users. For instance, an online store with a complex payment system necessitates more thorough scrutiny compared to a website used exclusively for blogging.

There are three types of SSL validation:

• Domain validated certificates (DV SSL)
• Certificates certified by organisations (OV SSL)
• certificates with extended validation (EV SSL)

Domain Validated SSL Certificates (DV SSL)

DV SSL certificates undergo the most basic level of validation. Upon request, CAs do not verify the identity of individuals or organisations operating websites. They simply ensure that a site admin is in charge of the URL, which suffices for domain registration.

When a website has a DV SSL certificate, the web address will have the HTTPS prefix and most browsers will show a padlock symbol. By clicking on the padlock, visitors have the ability to inspect the certificate and view essential information regarding website ownership.

Domain Validated SSL certificates are a great fit for smaller websites and blogs.

Advantages of DV SSL certificates:

• The verification process is typically conducted online and is automated. 
• No paperwork is required by CAs. 
• You can receive the certificate on the same day of your request. DV SSL certificates are an affordable choice available in the market.

Drawbacks of DV SSL certificates:

• Insufficient validation may discourage end users from sharing information. 
• DV SSL certificates are less secure compared to other options, as they can be obtained by anyone to imitate your website.

Organization Validated SSL Certificates (OV SSL)

Organisation Validated SSL certificate provides verification of website ownership and organisation details in a specific country and city. A website undergoes a series of background checks in order to obtain an OV SSL.

A website that possesses this certificate will display the HTPPS prefix in its URL and a padlock icon adjacent to the address bar. When a user clicks the padlock, the browser displays the domain owner’s information, including names, addresses, and countries of origin.

OV SSL certificates are a great choice for smaller companies and platforms that handle sensitive user information.

Benefits of OV SSL certificates:

• Robust security measures in place 
• Raised trustworthiness compared to DV SSL certificates, providing visitors with more information

Drawbacks of OV SSL certificates:

• It is necessary to prepare and submit business documents to a CA
• Pricier compared to a DV SSL certificate

Extended Validated SSL Certificates (EV SSL)

The Extended Validation SSL certificate provides an additional level of validation compared to both DV and OV certificates. It demonstrates that your website is registered as an official business.

When issuing EV SSL certificates, CAs conduct thorough background checks. They thoroughly examine domain ownership, legal existence, physical location(s), and other relevant factors.

An EV certificate has a unique feature that results in a green colour appearing in the browser address bar. In addition, the organization’s name is displayed alongside the padlock symbol. Visitors can feel confident in their interactions with the website, knowing that it is secure.

Enhanced Validation SSL certificates are well-suited for enterprises, financial institutions, and eCommerce stores.

Advantages of EV SSL certificates:

• Exceptional defense against phishing attacks, whaling attacks, email fraud, and other forms of cyber threats
• EV SSL certificates highlight the validation of the business by clearly stating the company name.

Drawbacks of EV SSL certificates:

• The SSL certificate with the highest price available 
• The verification process may require a few weeks

Different SSL certificates are available depending on the number of domains you need to secure

One important consideration when selecting an SSL certification is the number of domains you want to safeguard.

There are five different types of SSL certificates that vary based on the number of domains they can secure:

• SSL certificates for a specific domain
• SSL certificates for multiple subdomains
• SSL certificates for multiple domains
• SSL certificates that cover multiple domains with wildcard functionality
• SSL certificate for Unified Communications

In the following sections, we will delve into each type of SSL certificate and explore the various benefits that website owners can enjoy by purchasing the appropriate one.

SSL Certificates for a specific domain

A Single-Domain SSL certificate provides security for a single domain and all of its pages. Single-Domain SSL certificates provide coverage for both the www and non-www versions of a domain.

This SSL option is the most cost-effective. Ensuring the security of data flowing in and out of a website is sufficient. Purchasing this particular SSL certificate for a domain will not be applicable to any of its subdomains.

Wildcard SSL Certificates

Wildcard SSL certificates provide protection for a primary domain as well as an unlimited number of subdomains. When you purchase a certificate for mywebsite.com, you can rest assured that subdomains like mail.mywebsite.com or login.mywebsite.com will also be protected.

If you have plans to add subdomains, wildcard SSL certificates can be a great option. You have the flexibility to involve the certificate for any subdomain. Managing a Wildcard certificate is much simpler than dealing with individual certificates for each subdomain, which is a great advantage.

Validation options: DV and OV levels of validation are the only ones available for wildcard SSL certificates.

SSL Certificates for Multiple Domains

A Multi-Domain certificate is capable of providing protection for multiple domains, including subdomains. With a Multi-Domain SSL certificate, you can secure up to 250 domains, depending on the CA.

When using a Multi-Domain SSL, the primary domain is considered the Base Domain. All other domains are considered as subject alternative names (SAN).

Validation options include DV, OV, and EV levels of validation for Multi-Domain SSL.

SSL Certificates for Multiple Domains

A Multi-Domain Wildcard SSL certificate is a powerful tool that brings together the best of both Wildcard and Multi-Domain SSL certificates. A Multi-Domain Wildcard SSL certificate provides comprehensive protection for multiple fully qualified domains and an unlimited number of subdomains.

The initial investment requires a significant amount of capital. If you have multiple sites, a Multi-Domain Wildcard SSL certificate would be a great option for you. Admins can efficiently manage a unified certification for all websites.

Validation options include Multi-Domain Wildcard SSL certificates that offer DV and OV SSL validation.

SSL Certificates for Unified Communications (UCC)

UCC SSLs are issued for environments that make use of Microsoft Exchange and Office Communications.

United Communications SSL enables users to secure multiple fully qualified domains using just one certificate. Similar to Multi-Domain SSL, the primary domain is considered the Base Domain, while additional domains utilise SAN extensions instead of requiring separate IP addresses.

Depending on the CA, UCC can allow you to secure a range of domains, from 25 to 250.

There are two validation options available for Unified Communications SSL certification: DV or OV SSL validation.

Code Signing Certificates

Code Signing certificates enable the encryption of software codes, providing protection against unauthorised tampering by hackers. Having a CS certificate for your files is crucial, as it ensures that major operating systems will not issue warnings to users when they attempt to download or install your software.

By incorporating this additional layer of security, you gain the ability to:

• Gain the trust and confidence of users 
• Safeguard the integrity of your software package 
• Establish your authority as the software publisher • Increase the number of downloads

When a user attempts to install a signed piece of software, the operating system will show a popup window. To inspect the certification, the user can visit the developer’s website or click on the publisher’s name.

Validation options: A Code Signing certificate can be obtained with DV, OV, and EV verification. With the Extended Validated version, you’ll have the added security of two-factor authentication for your software.

SSL certificates that are self-signed

One option to enhance the security of your website is by generating a self-signed certificate using the SSL protocol. The website owner generates a self-signed certificate instead of relying on a certificate authority.

Self-signed certificates offer data encryption and enable HTTPS for your address. However, they can be created by anyone, unlike other SSL certificates.

A browser showing a warning regarding a self-signed certificate.

If you are using a website for anything other than private purposes, it is advisable to opt for a certification other than a self-signed one.

Tips for Selecting the Ideal SSL Certificate for Your Website

By now, you should have a solid understanding of which SSL certificate is the most suitable for your requirements. If you’re having trouble finding the ideal match, here are some factors to take into account:

• Consider the size of your website and how users interact with it. 
• What kind of information do you collect from visitors? 
• Please specify the number of domains and subdomains you would like to protect. 
• If you employ Microsoft Exchange and Office Communications environments
• Consider the number of subdomains you intend to add in the future. 

Typically, Domain Validated SSL certificates are most suitable for blogs and websites that do not handle any personal data from their users.

Efficiently managing and coordinating tasks Validated SSL certificates are perfect for small and medium-sized websites that collect personal data from their users.

Enterprise Validation SSL certificates are ideal for large companies that have a wide range of public-facing websites.

When it comes to the number of domains you need to protect, the decision should be clear. If you’re looking to safeguard one or two domains, consider investing in a Single-Domain or Wildcard certificate. If you’re looking to certify multiple domains, the best option would be a Multi-Domain SSL certificate.

Is it possible to use multiple SSL certificates for a single domain?

When multiple certificates are present on a single domain, the server is faced with the task of selecting one to utilise. Occasionally, the server may send the most up-to-date certificate to visitors. At times, the server might rotate and serve older ones.

Having multiple SSL certificates can lead to complications with SSL protocols and potentially compromise the security of the website.

Typically, there is no requirement for multiple SSL certificates per domain. However, there are a few scenarios where separate certificates could be used in the same IT environment:

• When employing a CDN, there are two SSL connections involved. There is a connection between the visitor and the CDN, as well as another connection between the CDN and the server. Using two SSL certificates, one on the server and another on the CDN, allows for the segmentation of access to your private keys.

• Using multiple servers: By installing your website on multiple servers, it is possible to enhance security and control access by employing two SSL certificates for the same domain.

• Test servers: It is common to have a separate environment for developing and testing new features and pages. In these cases, it is common to involve a separate SSL certificate for your test server.

In other situations, it is more advantageous to make some good use of a single certification for each domain.

In summary

The online environment operates within a set of rules and regulations. Securing your website with SSL is now an essential requirement for conducting business online. SSL certificates provide a sense of security and trust for your online visitors.

SSL certificates are a crucial aspect of establishing credibility and trust with customers and site visitors in today’s digital landscape. They provide a secure connection between a server and users’ browsers, encrypting data and preventing unauthorized access to sensitive information. There are ten different types of SSL certificates, each with varying levels of validation and suitability for securing different numbers of domains and subdomains. Domain Validation SSL Certificates (DV SSL) undergo the most basic level of validation and are a great fit for smaller websites and blogs. Organization Validated SSL Certificates (OV SSL) provide verification of website ownership and organization details, and are well-suited for smaller companies and platforms that handle sensitive user information. Extended Validation SSL Certificates (EV SSL) provide the highest level of validation, demonstrating that a website is registered as an official business, and are ideal for enterprises, financial institutions, and eCommerce stores. By understanding the different types of SSL certificates and their benefits, website owners can choose the best option to secure their site and establish trust with their users.

If you want to stay on top of the latest security recommendations, it’s advisable to transition your website from SSL to TLS. Once you’ve acquired an SSL certificate, the logical next step is to familiarize yourself with the process of installing it on either Nginx or Apache.

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