SSL certificates authenticate website identity and create secure connections between web servers and browsers. There are three main types based on validation level, each serving different purposes and security needs.

Extended Validation (EV) SSL Certificates

• Highest level of trust and security
• Requires strict human verification process
• Shows organization details in certificate
• Best for: eCommerce, financial, and legal websites
• Issuance time: 1-5 days after documentation
• Benefits: Maximum security and customer trust

Organization Validation (OV) SSL Certificates

• Mid-level security verification
• Requires business registration proof
• Displays organization information
• Best for: Commercial and public-facing websites
• Issuance time: 1-3 days
• Benefits: Business legitimacy verification

Domain Validation (DV) SSL Certificates

• Basic level of security
• Only verifies domain ownership
• Fastest and most affordable option
• Best for: Blogs, personal websites, test servers
• Issuance time: Minutes
• Benefits: Quick encryption setup

Certificate Variations

1. Single Domain SSL

• Secures one domain (www and non-www versions)
• Available in DV, OV, and EV types

2. Multi-Domain (SAN) SSL

• Secures up to 250 different domains
• Available in all validation types

3. Wildcard SSL

• Secures main domain and unlimited subdomains
• Available in DV and OV types

4. Unified Communications (UCC) SSL

• Specifically for Microsoft Exchange and Office Communication Server
• Can secure up to 100 domains

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