When it comes to SSL certificates, the best type depends on the specific needs and requirements of your website. However, one type that is often considered the best in terms of security and trust is the Extended Validation Certificate (EV SSL).
EV SSL certificates are the highest-ranking and most expensive SSL certificate type available. These certificates provide the highest level of security and trust to website visitors. To obtain an EV certificate, the website owner must go through a standardized identity verification process. This process is more rigorous than the verification process for other types of SSL certificates.
The purpose of the identity verification process is to confirm that the website owner has exclusive rights to their domain. This verification process involves validating the legal existence and physical location of the website owner’s organization. It also involves confirming that the website owner has authorized the issuance of the EV certificate.
One of the key features of an EV SSL certificate is the prominent display of the organization’s name in the browser’s address bar. This not only provides a visual indicator of trust to website visitors but also helps to differentiate the website from potential phishing or fraudulent websites.
The use of EV SSL certificates can significantly enhance the trustworthiness and credibility of a website. Research has shown that website visitors are more likely to engage in transactions or share sensitive information on websites that display an EV SSL certificate.
However, it’s important to note that while EV SSL certificates provide the highest level of security and trust, they may not be necessary for every type of website. If your website doesn’t involve sensitive transactions or the collection of personal information, a lower-level SSL certificate may be sufficient.
In addition to EV SSL certificates, there are other types of SSL certificates available, such as Domain Validation (DV) and Organization Validation (OV) certificates. DV certificates are the most basic type of SSL certificate and only require verification of domain ownership. These certificates are typically cheaper and easier to obtain.
OV certificates, on the other hand, require a more thorough verification process than DV certificates. They involve validating the domain ownership as well as verifying the organization’s identity. While OV certificates provide a higher level of trust than DV certificates, they do not offer the same level of visual indicators of trust as EV certificates.
The best type of SSL certificate depends on your specific needs and requirements. If you prioritize the highest level of security, trust, and visual indicators of trust for your website visitors, an EV SSL certificate is the best choice. However, if your website doesn’t involve sensitive transactions or the collection of personal information, a lower-level SSL certificate may be sufficient while also being more cost-effective.