Secure Socket Layer (SSL) and Transport Layer Security (TLS) certificates are used to provide secure communication over the internet. There are several types of SSL certificates, which differ in their level of validation, coverage, and the number of domains or subdomains they can secure.
Domain Validated (DV) SSL certificates are the most basic type of SSL certificate, and they only verify the ownership of the domain. They are suitable for small websites and blogs that do not collect sensitive information.
Organization Validated (OV) SSL certificates require a more rigorous validation process, including verifying the domain ownership and the organization that owns it. The certificate authority (CA) will also check the organization’s registration details, physical address, and other information to confirm its identity.
Extended Validation (EV) SSL certificates provide the highest level of validation and are used by websites that handle sensitive information such as financial transactions or personal data. EV certificates go through a comprehensive validation process to ensure the legal and physical presence of the organization. They are identifiable by the green address bar in the browser.
Wildcard SSL certificates allow securing multiple subdomains under one domain, while Multi-Domain SSL certificates secure multiple domains with one certificate. Unified Communications Certificates (UCC) are designed for Microsoft Exchange and Office Communications servers to secure multiple domains.
Code Signing Certificates are used to ensure software and code authenticity, while S/MIME Certificates secure email communication. TLS Client Certificates verify the identity of the client or user connecting to a server.
