Types of SSL Certificates

Secure communication between users and websites becomes possible with SSL certificates. They safeguard private information like credit card numbers and passwords from hackers by encrypting data sent online. You may feel secure knowing your personal information is protected when surfing or purchasing online. Additionally, SSL certificates enhance confidence by establishing a secure connection, assuring users that their interactions are safe.

Types of SSL Certificates

1. SSL Certificates for Single Domains
SSL certificates for single domains are designed to protect a single domain name. They offer an encryption barrier, ensuring that any information shared between your website and its users is protected from hackers and other online risks.

Use Case

Perfect for blogs, portfolio sites, or small e-commerce stores, it's ideal for single-domain websites run by individuals or small enterprises.

Advantages

• Simple to Assemble:

It is easy to install, so individuals with limited technical experience may use it.

• Economically Sound:

It's an affordable way to secure a single domain without having to pay for unnecessary additional coverage.

Example:

A Single Domain SSL Certificate secures the website ‘www.myboutique.com’, ensuring encrypted and secure communication for all user data.

2. Wildcard SSL Certificates

A single domain and all of its subdomains are covered by wildcard SSL certificates, which offer more protection. You can secure several subdomains under a single domain with a Wildcard SSL certificate.
Use Case

Perfect for companies who need to protect multiple subdomains under a single primary domain.

Advantages

• Simplifies Management:

Using a single certificate, manage security for every subdomain.

• Cost-Effective:

Provides protection for numerous subdomains without requiring additional certificates.

Example:

A Wildcard SSL Certificate secures ‘www.myshop.com’ and all its subdomains, such as ‘blog.myshop.com’ and ‘store.myshop.com’.

3. Multi-Domain SSL Certificates (SAN Certificates)
You can secure numerous domain names with a single SSL certificate using multi-domain certificates, commonly called Subject Alternative Name (SAN) certificates. A single SAN certificate can be used to protect several domains.

Use Case:

It is ideal for companies or groups that oversee numerous websites or domains.

Advantages

• Adaptable Security:

Safeguard several domain names with a single certificate.

• Simplifies Management:

Makes it simpler to oversee security across several locations.

Example:

A Multi-Domain SSL Certificate secures ‘www.myworld.com’, ‘www.myworld.net’, and ‘www.myworld.org’ under a single certificate.

4. Extended Validation (EV) SSL Certificates

SSL certificates with Extended Validation (EV) give the highest security and reliability. They entail a stringent verification procedure to validate the legal and operational validity of the organization. When an EV SSL certificate is issued, browsers display a green address bar, indicating increased credibility.

Use Case

Best for banking institutions, e-commerce websites, and any other organization that needs the highest level of user protection and confidence.

Advantages

• Top-Tier Security:

Offers the greatest degree of validation and encryption.

• Increases Confidence:

Lowers the possibility of fraud while assisting clients in feeling secure.

Example:

An Extended Validation (EV) SSL Certificate secures ‘www.banksecure.com’, displaying the company's name in the browser's address bar for enhanced trust.

5. Organization Validated (OV) SSL Certificates

Regarding verification, Organization Validated (OV) SSL certificates are more reliable than Domain Validated (DV) certificates. They entail carefully examining the organization's information and usage rights before issue. In the certificate information, OV SSL certificates display the enterprise's name.
Use Case

Ideal for organizations and groups looking to establish trust with clients by proving their legitimacy.

Advantages

• Moderate Validation:

Offers a strong degree of trust and validation.

• Visible Identity:

The certificate data includes the name of the organization.

Example:

An Organization Validated (OV) SSL Certificate secures ‘www.trustcorp.com’, showing the company's verified name in the certificate details to enhance customer confidence.

CompTIA Security+ with InfosecTrain

The CompTIA Security+ SY0-701 certification course from InfosecTrain is intended to cover all the important security concepts in detail. Understanding security concepts, spotting threats, controlling risks, and creating strong security architectures are just a few of the important subjects covered in this course. Completing this course will help you stand out in the competitive cybersecurity profession in addition to demonstrating your proficiency in protecting networks and systems. Acquiring practical skills that can help you thrive in real-world situations and progress your career in the constantly changing field of information security is more important than simply passing a test.