Why is there such a difference in the cost of SSL Certificates?

Though the encryption process is similar, the cost difference is typically due to the level of business verification and SSL verification services. The less expensive SSL certificates will only verify the domain owner via an email exchange. This type of verification is very quick, taking only a matter of minutes, but it lacks a full business verification.

The professional and more expensive solutions not only verify the domain name owner but they also verify the business legitimacy by checking Dun and Bradstreet numbers (
dnb.com), incorporation documents, DBA documentation, etc. The more expensive certificates typically also include SSL/business verification seals.

Since a user can click on the SSL Seal and get business verification information along with the SSL verification, they will have extra confidence that the SSL certificate is associated with a professional and legitimate business entity.

The new EV (Extended Validation) certificates turn a portion of the browser address bar green as a visual indication that the web page is secure.

Was this answer helpful?

 Print this Article

Also Read

How do I select the proper bit rate for my certificate?

When submitting the info for a CSR in our Control Panel (for an SSL certificate), the bit rate...

SSL "Site Seals"

If you wish to use the "site seal" icon for your SSL provider on your site, here are links to the...

What is Shared SSL?

Shared SSL is configured as a SSL certificate but without your domain name information. It is...

How do I get an SSL Certificate?

How do I get an SSL Certificate? You have a few options for obtaining a SSL certificate :...