Types of SSL Certificates
There are two distinctions to be made when we discuss types of SSL certificate.
- Validation Level: DV, OV, & EV
- Functionality: Single Domain, Wildcard, Multi-Domain, & Multi-Domain Wildcard
The beauty of SSL/TLS is that there is a certificate type for every use case. From the smallest of personal websites to the largest enterprise domains, there's an SSL certificate specifically designed to secure it. We've been in the SSL business for a long time, since back when Sectigo was still Comodo CA. Suffice it to say, we know what we're doing and we can help you find the perfect SSL solution for you and your website.
There are two distinctions to be made when we discuss types of SSL certificate.
Domain Validation is the least stringent form of validation. All that must be proven is control over the domain. As a result, these certificates can be issued and deployed quickly. They also cost less. DV is a great option for small sites that don’t collect personal data. But if you need to assert identity, DV isn't the best option.
OV SSL was the original SSL certificate. It requires light business authentication, which results in verified business information being listed in the certificate details. OV SSL can be used to secure IP addresses and is a good option for enterprise environments and intranets.
At the end of the validation spectrum is EV. Extended Validation is much more intensive – but the best way to assert identity online. With an EV SSL certificate, browsers will display your organization’s name inside the certificate details box.
The original SSL certificate. As the name implies, a Single Domain SSL certificate can be installed on a single domain or host name. Single Domain certificates are available at all three validation levels.
A Multi-Domain SSL certificate can encrypt up to 250 domains or host names with a single certificate. The main domain is entered in the FQDN field of the Certificate Signing Request and each additional domain is listed as a SAN (Subject Alternative Name). Most Multi-Domain certificates come standard with 2-4 SANs, additional SANs must be purchased as needed.
A Wildcard SSL certificate can secure a single domain and all accompanying first-level sub-domains. For any website that makes use of sub-domains this is a no-brainer. It reduces certificate management burdens and saves money over encrypting sub-domains individually. Wildcards can only be purchased at the DV and OV levels.
The most versatile form of SSL certificate, the Multi-Domain Wildcard can encrypt up to 250 domains or hostname, PLUS any accompanying sub-domains. This makes it an ideal choice for companies with large complicated digital infrastructures. Multi-Domain Wildcards are only available in DV or OV.
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