Available Types of Validation
Businesses and organizations need to add SSL certificates to their websites to encrypt and secure online transactions and keep customer information private and secure. Depending on the website’s purpose, and how sensitive the processed data is, choose between three validation methods.
Domain Validation (DV) – low authentication level
The authentication and issuance process only verifies that the applicant has administrative rights to the domain specified in the certificate.
- Ideal when only encryption is required, but no validation of the organization. For example, for non-commercial websites, mail servers, etc.
Organization Validation (OV) – medium authentication level
The validation includes full business identity authentication, domain name verification and the verification of the fact that the organizational contact applying for the certificate on behalf of the company or organization is a recognized employee.
- Ideal for public-facing websites dealing with less sensitive transactions.
Extended Validation (EV) – high authentication level
This is the highest level of authentication available with SSL certificates: A signed acknowledgment of agreement from the corporate contact is required. High-security browsers display the authenticated organization name and the issuing Certification Authority (CA). This validation type ensures that the site is highly authenticated and trustworthy.
- Ideal for e-commerce sites and websites handling credit card information and other highly sensitive data.
Multi-Domain Certificates
SAN (Subject Alternative Name) Certificates or Standard Certificates with SAN support allow multiple domains and host names to be secured with one single SSL certificate.
Wildcard Certificates
An unlimited number of sub-domains (*.domain.com) can be protected with one single SSL certificate.
