Choosing the Right SSL Certificate
Last updated August 13, 2024
SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) certificates are essential for securing your website, encrypting communication between your website and visitors, and building trust. DNSimple offers a variety of SSL certificates to meet your specific needs and provide the optimal level of security.
Understanding SSL Certificate Types
Here's a breakdown of common SSL certificate types:
- Domain Validation (DV) Certificates: These are the most basic and affordable SSL certificates. They verify that you own the domain you're securing. DV certificates display a padlock icon in the address bar but don't show your company name.
- Organization Validation (OV) Certificates: OV certificates require more stringent validation, verifying your organization's identity. They display a padlock icon and your company name in the address bar. OV certificates are often preferred for businesses and organizations that want to enhance trust and credibility.
- Extended Validation (EV) Certificates: EV certificates undergo the most rigorous checks, verifying your business's legal existence and identity. They provide the highest level of trust and display a green address bar and your company name, signifying a high degree of security. EV certificates are often chosen for businesses that handle sensitive financial transactions or other critical information.
- Wildcard Certificates: Wildcard certificates provide a single certificate to secure a domain and all its subdomains. This is useful for websites with multiple subdomains.
- Multi-Domain Certificates: These certificates secure multiple unrelated domains under a single certificate.
**Factors to Consider When Choosing:**
- Website type: The level of trust and security needed for your website should guide your choice. Websites that process financial data or contain sensitive information may benefit from EV certificates.
- Budget: DV certificates are the most affordable, while EV certificates are typically more expensive due to the rigorous validation process.
- Company size and reputation: Businesses and organizations that want to build trust and credibility may opt for OV or EV certificates.
- Number of domains: If you need to secure multiple domains, consider wildcard or multi-domain certificates.
- Ease of installation: DNSimple makes certificate installation easy, providing clear instructions and support resources.
**Important Notes:**
- Expired certificates: Make sure to renew your SSL certificate before it expires to avoid security vulnerabilities.
- Browser compatibility: Choose a certificate that is compatible with all major browsers.
- DNSimple services: DNSimple offers a range of SSL certificate options, providing helpful resources and support for choosing the best certificate for your website.
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