What is SSL? Do I need it?

Basically SSL is a method we can use to securely transfer information on the internet. It stands for Secure Socket Layers.

Why do we need this?

It encrypts data we send from our web browser to the web server we are visiting - this is needed when we want to keep certain personal details or financial details etc. secret and safer from tampering.

What are the differences between the various certificates?

It's all about trust - most certificates are technically as secure as each other, but they have different levels of trust.

There are three main types of certificate...

• Domain validated- these have low assurance/trust levels
  • They are quickly issued as only the domain name is validated, usually via an email
  • They are low cost
  • Can be issued to non-businesses
  • Great to secure sites, projects, APIs
  • Not recommended for ecommerce and shopping sites
• Business validated- these have a high assurance/trust level
  • These can take from a few hours to a couple of days to complete. They have numerous checks by people to make sure the business details are valid and the domain is owned by the business
  • These are good for ecommerce sites etc
• Extended Validation (EV)- these offer the highest assurance and trust levels, and also come with the browser "Green Bar"
  • These can take upto 7 working days to complete. They are the highest security certificates because they link company information with the domain name. Business details are verified, which include address and phone numbers. The person ordering the certificate must be authorised to do so.
  • They provide protection form phishing attacks, so customers will feel safer when they can see that one is being used.
  • Green Bar = More trust = Happier visitors!
  • Great for ecommerce and sites that require personal details to be entered

What are wildcard certificates?

Wildcard SSL certificates can secure any sub domain name under a main domain.

For example if you purchased a wildcard certificate for yourdomainname.co.uk all of the following would be secured automatically work via https

• yourdomainname.co.uk
• www.yourdomainname.co.uk
• office.yourdomainname.co.uk
• anything.yourdomainname.co.uk
• andmore.yourdomainname.co.uk

View all our wildcard SSL certificates.

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