What Is a SSL Certificate?An SSL certificate is a digital certificate that authenticates the identity of a Website and encrypts information that is sent to the server using Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) technology. Encryption is the process of scrambling data into
What Is a SSL Certificate?An SSL certificate is a digital certificate that authenticates the identity of a Website and encrypts information that is sent to the server using Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) technology. Encryption is the process of scrambling data into a format that can only be returned to a readable format with the proper decryption key. A certificate serves as an electronic "passport" that establishes an online entity's credentials when doing business on the Web. When an Internet user attempts to send confidential information to a Web server, the user's browser accesses the server's digital certificate and establishes a secure connection. A SSL certificate contains the following information:
- The certificate holder's name
- The certificate's serial number and expiration date
- A copy of the certificate holder's public key
- The digital signature of the certificate-issuing authority
Forms of SSL Certificate ValidationThe most common type of SSL Certificate issued is for Domain Validation. These are the least expensive and provide a "secure padlock" in your browser. These types of SSL Certificates simply validate that you are in fact at the specified domain. The next type of SSL Certificate validation is the Organization Validation. These certificates are a little more costly, but they verify not only domain ownership, but also the organization's information such as name, city, state, and country. The final level of validation is Extended Validation. This level of SSL Certificate validation is the top-of-the-line type of certificate and offers the most assurances to your Website visitor. These certificates not only validate domain name ownership and an organization's information, but these certificates also validate the organization's legal existence and approval of the site under the organization itself. These are the type of certificates used by most banks that produce the green background displayed in the address bar of all major Web browsers.
Does My Site Need a Security Package?Below are some sites which require a Security Package however these are only a few, for a more complete list please contact our Sales Department.
- E-commerce sites using payment gateways
- Medical related sites which collect patient information (HIPPA Laws)
- Law related sites which collect client information
- Any site which collects sensitive information or processes order information is recommended to have a Security Package
So which certificate is right for you?We offer a wide range of security packages to cover any need. From basic security and validation requirements, to high end security and recognition, Monster Web's SSL Certificates have it covered. Talk it over with one of our account specialists and we'll help you find the right certificate at the right price. Monster Web provides all three types of SSL Certificates issued by the most trusted names: VeriSign, GeoTrust, and RapidSSL.
Dedicated IP AddressAll SSL Certificates require a Dedicated IP Address.Learn about Monster Web's Dedicated IP Addresses