This is the Type of SSL Certificate You Should Be Aware Of

Type of SSL certificate: The security of an internet network that we use today can be guaranteed by using the SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) security protocol. The SSL security protocol will create an encrypted link between the server and the web browser.

SSL also has many types. For those of you who don't know the type of SSL certificate, you can read more fully about it in the following review, along with the benefits of using SSL that you can get. Without further ado, let's take a look!

There are two different categories for distinguishing the types of SSL certificates: those based on the number of domains and subdomains and those based on the level of certificate validation. Here's an explanation for you:

SSL Certificate Based on the Number of Domains

SSL certificates, based on the number of domains and subdomains, are divided into 4 types, namely:

1. Single-Domain SSL Certificates

A single-domain SSL certificate is a type of certificate that secures one domain and all the pages on that domain. However, this certificate will not secure the associated subdomains.

2. Wildcard SSL Certificate

Like a single-domain SSL certificate, a wildcard SSL certificate only secures one domain. The difference is that this certificate also covers every sub-domain (an unlimited number of sub-domains) associated with that single domain.

3. Multi-Domain SSL Certificates

Unlike a wildcard SSL certificate, a multi-domain SSL certificate secures multiple domains but not the associated subdomains. This certificate is also known as the Subject Alternative Name (SAN) and the Unified Communication Certificate (UCC).

4. Multi-Domain Wildcard SSL Certificates

There are also SSL certificates that combine the features of multi-domain and wildcard SSL certificates. In other words, with this one certificate, you can thoroughly secure multiple domains and all their associated subdomains.

SSL Certificate by Validation

The validation level of an SSL certificate is set by a certificate authority (CA) that validates the authenticity of your business before issuing you an SSL certificate. There are three types of certificate levels based on their validity:

1. Domain Validation (DV) SSL Certificates

Domain validation (DV) is the simplest SSL certificate validation process and is only for the verification of domain ownership. The process is only done through email verification and does not require further investigation from CA. This is also the cheapest and fastest way to get an SSL certificate.

2. Organization Validation (OV) SSL Certificates

OV is the next level when it comes to validation. Apart from validating your domain, CA can also help verify your business by directly contacting you or your business account. CA requires verification that you own the domain and that it was created for a legally registered business. This certificate is considered very reliable.

3. Extended Validation (EV) SSL Certificates

EV is an SSL certificate that offers the highest level of trust and reliability. This certificate involves a full background check of your business. A rigorous vetting process by a CA is required to obtain this certificate.

On some browsers, your business name may be displayed prominently if you have this certificate. They will be displayed in green next to the domain name when accessing their website.

Things to Consider When Choosing an SSL Certificate

Some things you should consider before you decide to use a particular SSL certificate, for example:

What information will be collected from your users?

• Is it necessary for your users to create a password in order to access the account?

• How much personal information do they provide?

• Did they give you your credit card or bank information?

The more information you gather, the more important it is to secure your website.

How important is user trust to you?

Your reputation can be key to how much business you get. Potential customers will turn away from your business if they feel unsafe using your website.

How many domains must be protected?

• Does your business only have one domain or span multiple domains?

• Do you have subdomains that branch off from your main domain?

After you consider some of the conditions above, you can find out which type of certificate suits your needs.

advantages of using SSL

SSL is very important for all types of websites, even if the website does not sell products or services. Even personal blogs need the security solution known as SSL. Website owners need SSL and can get it without having to spend a lot of money.

There are so many advantages or benefits of SSL that can be felt by website owners, managers, and visitors. Curious? Following are some of the benefits or advantages of using SSL.

Encryption and authentication

Encrypted data is much more secure than unencrypted data. so that you can minimize your anxiety about someone's personal data being leaked. When visiting a website, especially when providing information or files via a server, SSL can ensure that you are visiting the right website and not a phishing website.

This phishing website can look the same as the official website of all agencies or organizations, so it can deceive internet users who are still unfamiliar with using SSL. Thus, irresponsible parties will collect data or information that they can use for various cyber crimes.

Accelerating SEO results

SSL may not directly provide benefits for your search engine optimization (SEO), but it is one of the considerations for search engines in determining ranking in search results.

Google, one of the biggest search engines, has announced that having SSL is one of the factors that increases ranking in search engines. In other words, the algorithm created allows websites with SSL to get a higher ranking on search engine result pages, or what we call SERPs (search engine result pages).

Which SSL Certificate Is Best for Your Company?

An SSL certificate will make your website look legitimate and be trusted by visitors. The types of SSL certificates, the advantages, and some things to consider before choosing which SSL certificate you can choose for your website have also been explained. However, if you are still not sure about choosing an SSL certificate that is suitable for your business, here are some options that I have summarized to help convince you more:

• For small or personal websites with a single domain, a single domain SSL certificate is more suitable for you as it is the most affordable and still functional.
• If your business website has one domain but multiple subdomains, a wildcard SSL certificate is the way to go and will be much cheaper than obtaining a separate SSL certificate for each subdomain.
• For larger websites or businesses with more than one domain (for example, a company that owns multiple brands, each with its own domain), a multi-domain SSL certificate is a wise choice. This certificate will cover all your domains and is certainly cheaper than getting an SSL certificate for each domain.
• If your organization wants to save even more time and money, a multi-domain Wildcard SSL is ideal for securing an unlimited number of domains and subdomains.

Having the right SSL certificate to secure your website is very important to maintain the trust of your visitors and customers. What's more, there is nothing more important in the digital world than maintaining the security and confidentiality of personal information. That's all I have to say about the different types of SSL certificates; hopefully it's helpful; thank you.