SSL stands for Secure Sockets Layer, a global standard security technology that enables encrypted communication between a web browser and a web server. It is utilized by millions1 of online businesses and individuals to decrease the risk of sensitive information (e.g., credit card numbers, usernames, passwords, emails, etc.) from being stolen or tampered with by hackers and identity thieves. In essence, SSL allows for a private “conversation” just between the two intended parties.

To create this secure connection, an SSL certificate (also referred to as a “digital certificate”) is installed on a web server and serves two functions:
* It authenticates the identity of the website and guarantees visitors that they’re not on a bogus site.
* It encrypts the data that’s being transmitted

Data transferred in plain-text form or in non-encrypted format can be intercepted, eavesdropped, compromised and stolen. Transactions performed online may involve submitting personal information such as credit card information, social security numbers, usernames, and passwords. Cybercriminals who intercept unencrypted communications will gain full access to this data and can use it for fraudulent purchases and activities.

Trust and security are what make people confident enough to provide private, sensitive information online. SSL certificates are what make a website trusted. Organizations must use an SSL certificate to secure their site if they wish to take online payments or expect their visitors to submit confidential information. Apart from building essential trust and security in your website, SSL certificates also help with SEO efforts now that Google is providing a rankings boost for pages that are served over https.

How you build your website is entirely up to you. In fact, most basic secure websites can be hand-coded using HTML.

When a visitor enters an SSL-protected page on your website, their browser bar displays a padlock icon and the HTTPS:// prefix in the URL address. While most Internet users know to look for those SSL indicators, you can also add a site seal to your website to show visitors your site is verified and secured. Visitors can click the seal to view your certificate’s status and details, seeing for themselves that it’s safe to send sensitive information to your website. Websites protected by iiiHOST’s Premium EV SSL display a green browser bar as well, giving users the green light.

All SSL-protected sites display the https:// prefix in the URL address bar. Sites protected with a Premium EV SSL Certificate display a green browser bar to quickly assure visitors that the organization’s legal and physical existence was verified according to strict industry standards.

iiiHOST’s Premium EV SSL Certificate involves the most extensive vetting process. We verify the control of the domain and legitimacy of your company by validating the legal name, address, phone number, and other business information. The process takes about 30 days, but we’ve got you covered during that time. EV SSL Certs come with a free Standard SSL to use during the vetting process, so you can keep your transactions secure while you wait.

For one thing, our SSL certs cover unlimited secure servers. They support up to 2048-bit encryption and they’re recognized by all of the major desktop and mobile browsers on the market. Plus, they’re backed by the industry’s best 24/7 phone service and support. There’s absolutely no technical difference between iiiHOST SSL Certificates and those offered by other companies – they simply cost less. Is it any wonder we’re the largest provider of net new SSL Certificates in the world?

Standard SSLs (DV) usually take 5 minutes or less. Deluxe SSLs (OV) take 3-5 business days, as we’re validating not just domain ownership but also the existence of the organization or business on the SSL application. In both cases, you can shorten your wait by making sure the domain contact information listed in the WhoIs is up-to-date.

For Premium (EV) certificates, there is an extensive vetting process that starts with an in-depth application. Before you start, pull together details about your business, such as registration number, incorporation or registration agent, and any relevant jurisdiction information.

A Wildcard SSL Cert protects your primary domain and an unlimited number of its subdomains. For example, a single Wildcard Certificate can secure both www.coolexample.com and blog.coolexample.com.

Wildcard Certificates secure the common name and all subdomains at the level you specify when you submit your SSL request.

Depending on how your website is configured, you might want to use something other than a single-domain SSL certificate.

• Wildcard SSLs cover all of a domain name’s subdomains. For example, you can secure *.coolexample.com, which would cover shop.coolexample.com, www.coolexample.com, and any other subdomains.
• UCC SSLs can cover multiple subdomains, unique domain names, and websites. For example, you can secure www.coolexample.com, mail.coolexample.com, and www.awesomeexample.com.