Learn About the 7 Types of SSL, Their Uses, and Tips for Choosing the Right One

Are you having trouble deciding which type of SSL to use for your website? First, familiarize yourself with the different types of SSL so you don’t make the wrong choice. Read the explanation in this article.

There are many factors to consider when choosing an SSL certificate provider. One of them is knowing which type of SSL is suitable for your website. Yes, the types of SSL available vary widely, and each serves a distinct purpose. You need to understand each type to avoid making the wrong choice when installing an SSL certificate on your website. Read the full discussion in this article.

What Is SSL?

SSL, or Secure Socket Layer, is a component on a website that ensures transactions or data transfers occur only between two parties. These parties can be a server and a client—for example, in e-commerce transactions—or server-to-server, such as an application accessing a database that stores personal data.

SSL works by ensuring that data transferred between two parties cannot be read by anyone else. It does this by encrypting the transferred data.

Having an SSL certificate has become a standard that every website must meet, regardless of its type. Every browser, such as Google Chrome, now labels websites without SSL as “not secure.”

You may also have heard of TLS. What is TLS?

Simply put, TLS is the most up-to-date version of SSL. However, most people still refer to it as SSL. Services that sell SSL/TLS also more often refer to it as SSL.

What Are the Types of SSL Certificates and Their Uses?

Now that you understand what SSL is, it’s time to learn about its types. SSL types are divided into two categories: based on the number of domains and the level of validation. Let’s explore the different types of SSL certificates below.

Based on the Number of Domains

This category classifies SSL types based on the number of domains and subdomains they can protect, though the security level remains the same. The domain types in this category include single-domain, wildcard, multi-domain, and UCC. See the explanations below.

1. Single-Domain SSL

As the name suggests, a Single-Domain SSL can only protect a single domain listed in the Certificate Signing Request (CSR) and all pages within it. You cannot install this SSL on subdomains associated with the website.

For example: A single-domain SSL can secure the website: cintaibudayaindonesia.com and all pages within it, such as: cintaibudayaindonesia.com/blog. However, the SSL will not secure one of its subdomains, namely: shop.cintaibudayaindonesia.com. Using a single-domain SSL is not ideal if your website has its own subdomain for conducting online transactions.

2. Wildcard SSL

A Wildcard SSL can secure the main domain and any number of subdomains. To verify this, check the lock icon in the address bar, then click ‘Certificate.’ If an asterisk (*) appears before the main domain, it means all subdomains on that website are protected by the SSL.

3. Multi-Domain SSL

A multi-domain certificate provides protection for multiple different domains and subdomains. The number of domains varies but typically ranges from 100 to 250. All these domain names are listed in a single certificate. A website with this SSL certificate will have several names listed in the Subject Alternative Name (SAN) section, which can be viewed in the ‘Details’ menu.

4. Unified Communications Certificates (UCC) SSL

UCC is essentially an older version of the multi-domain SSL certificate. Websites or applications that use UCC typically run on Microsoft Exchange or Live Communications servers. The unique feature of this SSL lies in its optimized features and functions designed to enhance server security.

Based on Validation Level

This category classifies SSL certificates based on their validation level. This means that the Certificate Authority (CA) will perform different verification processes depending on the type of SSL being used. What are the types of SSL in this category?

1. Domain Validated Certificates (DV) SSL

DV has the lightest validation level, making it suitable for personal blogs or freelancers who want to showcase their portfolios. You only need to confirm domain ownership to the CA via phone call or email. Websites with DV SSL already display a padlock icon and an HTTPS domain in the address bar, but do not show the business name in the certificate’s ‘Details’ section.

2. Organization Validated Certificates (OV) SSL

OV SSL has a moderate validation level. Certificates at this level can already encrypt sensitive information, though not to the same extent as EV. The CA will request proof of your business’s name, physical address, phone number, and legal status. Websites with OV SSL will display business location information in the certificate’s ‘Details’ section. This type of SSL is commonly used by small or medium-sized businesses to make their websites appear more legitimate and trustworthy to visitors.

3. Extended Validation (EV) SSL Certificates

EV SSL has a very high validation level because the CA will conduct a detailed background check on the business, particularly regarding physical location, legal status, and order details. Websites using EV SSL will display information such as the business name and country. Large companies are required to use this type of SSL to ensure customer data remains secure.

How to Choose the Right Type of SSL?

Now that you’re familiar with the types of SSL, it’s time to choose the right type and SSL service. Follow the steps below.

1. Choose the Validation Level

You need to select the SSL type based on its validation level first, then calculate the number of domains. When choosing a validation level, you must align it with the type of business website you operate. Don’t choose a DV SSL for an online store because certificates at that level won’t provide as detailed encryption as OV or EV.

2. Determine the Number of Domains

You need to count the number of domains or subdomains you want to install the SSL certificate on. It’s best not to choose a single-domain SSL if your website has multiple subdomains you want to protect. You can choose a wildcard SSL if you have only one domain and many subdomains.

3. Determine Capacity and Visitor Volume

Website visitor volume is also a key factor in selecting the right SSL type. You only need a DV certificate if your website has only a few dozen visitors. Use an OV or EV certificate if your visitors number in the thousands and your website has a user login system to ensure email and password information remains secure.

4. Estimate Issuance Time

You need to know the issuance time for each SSL level. Each level has a different issuance time because it takes time to validate the provided data. DV certificate issuance takes only a few minutes, OV takes up to three days, and EV can take several weeks.

5. Ensure There Is a Warranty

It’s a good idea to look for an SSL certificate issuer that offers a monetary warranty. This warranty serves as a safeguard in the event of a data breach or information leak on your website. The higher the SSL validation level used, the higher the warranty amount provided by the SSL company.

6. Adjust Your Budget

You can certainly find free SSL certificates online. However, it’s worth investing in sensitive matters like data security by using a paid SSL certificate.

Research the costs of SSL certificate issuance services and align them with your business budget. However, don’t lower the validation level just to fit the budget if it’s not necessary.

7. Choose a Certificate Authority

(CA)

Every CA has its own advantages and disadvantages. However, you can try Sectigo SSL. Sectigo SSL uses 256-bit encryption, making it ideal for online businesses. Its security is also multi-layered, ensuring your website is highly resistant to hacker attacks.

Interested in using Sectigo SSL but unsure how to register the certificate? Cloudmatika will help you obtain a Sectigo SSL certificate for your website.

You can get a one-year SSL certificate with a full range of features. What if you encounter issues or difficulties while using the SSL certificate? You can contact Cloudmatika’s support team, which is always available, and we’ll resolve the issue immediately. Contact Cloudmatika right away and secure your company’s website now to boost your customers’ trust.