SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) is the common name for TLS (Transport Layer Security), a security protocol that enables encrypted communications between two machines. An SSL certificate is a small data file leveraging this security protocol to serve two functions:

1. Authentication – SSL certificates serve as credentials to authenticate the identity of a website. They are issued to a specific domain name and web server after a Certificate Authority, also known as a Certification Authority (CA), performs a strict vetting process on the organization requesting the certificate. Depending on the certificate type, it can provide information about a business or website's identity and authenticate that the website is a legitimate business.
2. Secure data communication - When SSL is installed on a web server, it enables the padlock to appear in the web browser. It activates the HTTPS protocol and creates a secure connection between the server and a browser. It enables use of encryption algorithms to scramble the data in transit into an indecipherable format that can only be read with the proper decryption key.

Web browsers only show the secure indicators for SSL signed by a trusted CA, like Comodo CA. To become a trusted CA, a company must comply with and perform regular audits for the security and authentication process standards established by the leading browsers and the industry standards body called the CA/Browser Forum. When a trusted CA issues a certificate to an organization, the browser will recognize the certificate as legitimate. The browser lets the user know that the web address is secure, and the user can safely browse the site and enter personal information.

Multi-year plans provide instant savings and consistent coverage in a simplified, long-term solution. While you will have to reissue your certificate each year per industry standards, you're guaranteed the lowest price today, and locked in with coverage for multiple years.

How to Choose between an EV, OV or DV Certificate

Domain Validation (DV) SSL Certificates
DVs are best for small- to medium-sized businesses seeking cost-effective security with no need to establish site visitor trust. Issuance of a DV certificate simply requires proof of ownership of the associated domain name, which is provided through a simple email validation process. These certificates can be issued in minutes, enable HTTPS, and display a clear indicator, such as the padlock symbol, in internet browsers.
However, DV certificates do not vet the legitimacy of the organization the website represents and should therefore not be used for e-commerce sites or sites that deal in sensitive information. They are however, a great option for many internal sites, test servers, and test domains.

Organization Validation (OV) SSL Certificates
OV certificates provide the same level of protection as DV certificates but go one step further than simply requiring proof of domain ownership. With an OV certificate, the issuing Certificate Authority confirms the business associated with the domain name is registered and legitimate by checking details such as the business name, location, address, and incorporation or registration information. This makes the OV certificate a more suitable option for public-facing websites that represent companies or organizations.

Extended Validation (EV) SSL Certificates
EV certificates provide the highest level of trust by assuring consumers that they are conducting business through a trusted website. For this reason, these certificates have become the industry standard for ecommerce websites.

If you need additional help selecting the right certificate for you, contact our team of experts today by using the chat in the lower corner or calling us. Our sales team is available 24/5.