An SSL (Secure Socket Layer) certificate protects your website's data and establishes user trust. With different types of SSL certificates available, choosing the right one depends on your security requirements, site functionality, and user expectations. Let’s explore the most common SSL options to help you decide which one best suits your needs.
Domain Validated (DV) SSL Certificate
A Domain Validated SSL Certificate provides essential encryption for sites needing basic data security. This type of certificate is verified by confirming ownership of the domain and is perfect for simpler sites that handle minimal sensitive information, like blogs or small business websites.
- Purpose: Protects basic user interactions with a secure HTTPS connection and padlock symbol.
- Ideal For: Personal websites, blogs, and small business sites.
- Availability: Our DV SSL options include Positive SSL and Sectigo SSL, which provide essential, budget-friendly encryption.
DV SSL certificates are free with select Business and Enterprise packages and available for purchase with other hosting options.
Multi-Domain SSL Certificate
A Multi-Domain SSL Certificate is a cost-effective solution for securing multiple domains with one certificate. This type of SSL is ideal for businesses or organizations managing several sites and looking for simplified security management.
- Purpose: Enables encryption across multiple domains and second-level domains (e.g., website.com, mysite.net, blog.website.com).
- Ideal For: Businesses or agencies with multiple domain properties.
- Features: Secure up to 200 different domains or subdomains with a single certificate, making security management more efficient and streamlined.
Wildcard SSL Certificate
A Wildcard SSL Certificate secures an unlimited number of subdomains under a primary domain. It’s especially useful for growing websites that may add subdomains over time, such as an online store, blog, or support site under the same brand.
- Purpose: Simplifies security across subdomains, reducing management complexity and cost.
- Ideal For: Businesses with multiple subdomains, like shop.website.com or support.website.com.
- Features: Easily extend security to all subdomains, with one certificate covering the primary domain and every subdomain.
Extended Validation (EV) SSL Certificate
An Extended Validation SSL Certificate provides the highest level of security and user trust. These certificates go through an in-depth validation process, verifying the business's identity, legitimacy, and operational status. EV SSL certificates are highly recommended for businesses handling financial transactions or sensitive customer information.
- Purpose: Boosts visitor confidence by visibly displaying secure indicators in the browser, like a green HTTPS bar or similar, signifying rigorous authentication.
- Ideal For: E-commerce sites, financial institutions, and high-traffic websites needing maximum security assurance.
- Features: Shows strong security indicators that increase visitor trust, highlighting your business’s commitment to user safety.
Why an SSL Certificate Matters
An SSL certificate builds a secure environment for both you and your users. By choosing the right SSL type, you protect user data, enhance trust, and even improve your site’s search engine ranking. If you’re unsure which SSL certificate best suits your needs, contact our support team for guidance.
