Understanding Different Types of SSL Certificates

Overview

SSL certificates come in different validation levels and coverage options. Picking the right one helps balance trust, speed, and cost.

Domain Validated (DV)

• Validation: Proves domain control only
• Best for: Personal sites, blogs, prototypes
• Pros: Fast, affordable
• Cons: Lowest identity assurance

Organization Validated (OV)

• Validation: Business identity + domain control
• Best for: Company websites
• Pros: Higher trust than DV
• Cons: Takes longer than DV

Extended Validation (EV)

• Validation: Rigorous business checks
• Best for: E‑commerce, finance
• Pros: Highest assurance
• Cons: Costly, longer issuance

Wildcard

• Coverage: Domain + all first-level subdomains (*.example.com)
• Best for: Many subdomains

Multi-Domain (SAN)

• Coverage: Multiple hostnames in one cert
• Best for: Multi-brand or multi-env setups