SSL, which stands for Secure Sockets Layer, is a standard security technology for establishing an encrypted link between a web server and a browser. This link ensures that all data passed between the web server and browsers remain private and integral. SSL is widely used to secure credit card transactions, data transfer, and logins, and more recently has become the standard for securing browsing of social media sites.

# What is SSL?

SSL, which stands for Secure Sockets Layer, is a standard security protocol for establishing encrypted links between a web server and a browser in an online communication. It's designed to ensure that data transmitted between the web server and browser remains secure and confidential. SSL encrypts the information exchanged, making it extremely difficult for unauthorized parties to intercept or decipher the data.

# The primary goals of SSL are:

Encryption: SSL encrypts the data transmitted between the user's browser and the web server, preventing eavesdropping and data theft by malicious actors.

Authentication: SSL provides authentication, ensuring that users are communicating with the intended website and not an impostor or intermediary. This helps prevent man-in-the-middle attacks.

Data Integrity: SSL ensures that the data transmitted between the user and the server remains intact and hasn't been tampered with during transmission.

SSL certificates, issued by trusted Certificate Authorities (CAs), play a crucial role in the SSL process. These certificates verify the identity of the website and establish trust between the website and the visitor's browser. When a website has an SSL certificate installed, the browser displays a padlock icon in the address bar, indicating a secure connection. Additionally, the website's URL begins with "https://" instead of "http://", where the "s" stands for secure.

# Types of SSL

There are several types of SSL certificates available, each offering different levels of security and validation. Here are the main types:

Domain Validated (DV) SSL Certificates: These are the most basic type of SSL certificates. They only verify that the domain name matches the one in the certificate, providing encryption for the connection. DV certificates are typically the quickest and cheapest to obtain and are suitable for basic websites where trust is less of a concern.

Organization Validated (OV) SSL Certificates: OV certificates provide a higher level of validation compared to DV certificates. In addition to verifying domain ownership, the CA also confirms the identity of the organization that owns the domain. This additional validation provides a higher level of trust for website visitors. OV certificates display the organization's name in the SSL certificate details.

Extended Validation (EV) SSL Certificates: EV certificates offer the highest level of validation and trust. They undergo the most rigorous validation process, including verifying the legal existence, physical location, and operational status of the organization. Websites with EV certificates display the organization's name prominently in the browser's address bar, along with a green padlock icon. This visually distinguishes them as highly secure and trustworthy.

Wildcard SSL Certificates: Wildcard SSL certificates allow secure communication for a single domain and an unlimited number of its subdomains. For example, a wildcard certificate issued for "*.example.com" would secure "www.example.com", "mail.example.com", "blog.example.com", etc. This is convenient for organizations with multiple subdomains as they can secure them all with a single certificate.

Multi-Domain (SAN) SSL Certificates: Multi-Domain SSL certificates, also known as Subject Alternative Name (SAN) certificates, allow securing multiple domain names with a single certificate. They can secure up to a specific number of domains (e.g., 5, 10, 25) and their associated subdomains. This is useful for organizations with multiple websites or domains.

Unified Communications (UC) SSL Certificates: UC certificates are specifically designed for Microsoft Exchange and Office Communications environments. They allow securing multiple domain names, host names, and server names associated with Microsoft Exchange Server, Office Communications Server, and other Microsoft collaboration platforms.

Each type of SSL certificate serves different needs based on the level of validation required, the number of domains or subdomains to secure, and the desired level of trust and assurance for website visitors.

# How to buy ssl from best ssl provider

To buy an SSL certificate from the [best SSL certificate providers](https://mashupmind.com/best-ssl-certificate-providers/) for your needs, follow these general steps:

Identify Your Requirements: Determine the type of SSL certificate you need based on your website's requirements. Consider factors such as the level of validation (DV, OV, EV), the number of domains or subdomains you need to secure, and any specific features you require.

Research SSL Providers: Look for reputable SSL providers that offer the type of certificate you need. Consider factors such as security features, validation processes, customer support, pricing, and reputation.

Compare SSL Plans: Compare the SSL plans offered by different providers, considering factors such as certificate features, warranty, validity period, and pricing. Pay attention to any additional services or features included with the SSL certificate.

Check Compatibility: Ensure that the SSL certificates offered by the provider are compatible with your web server platform and the browsers and devices used by your website visitors.

Verify Trustworthiness: Verify the trustworthiness of the SSL provider by checking reviews, testimonials, and their reputation within the industry. Look for providers that are widely recognized and trusted by major browsers and customers.

Purchase SSL Certificate: Once you've chosen the best SSL provider for your needs, proceed to purchase the SSL certificate. Follow the provider's instructions for selecting the desired certificate type, specifying the domains or subdomains to secure, and completing the purchase process.

Complete Validation Process: Depending on the type of SSL certificate you've purchased (DV, OV, EV), you may need to complete a validation process to verify your identity and domain ownership. Follow the provider's instructions for completing the validation process promptly to expedite the issuance of your SSL certificate.

Install SSL Certificate: After the SSL certificate is issued, follow the provider's instructions for installing it on your web server. This typically involves generating a Certificate Signing Request (CSR), submitting it to the provider, and then installing the SSL certificate on your server. Many providers offer guides or support to assist with the installation process.

Test SSL Installation: Once the SSL certificate is installed, test your website to ensure that the SSL is functioning correctly and that visitors can access your site securely via HTTPS.

Renew SSL Certificate: Remember to keep track of the expiry date of your SSL certificate and renew it before it expires to maintain secure communication on your website.

By following these steps, you can purchase an SSL certificate from the best SSL provider for your needs and ensure secure communication between your website and its visitors.

# Top ssl providers

the top SSL providers were determined based on factors such as reputation, trustworthiness, features, customer support, and pricing. Here are some of the top SSL providers:

DigiCert: DigiCert is a highly respected SSL provider known for its advanced security features, strong encryption, and excellent customer support. They offer a wide range of SSL certificates, including DV, OV, EV, wildcard, and multi-domain certificates.

Comodo SSL: Comodo SSL, now known as Sectigo, is one of the largest and most popular SSL providers globally. They offer a variety of SSL certificates at competitive prices, with options for DV, OV, and EV certificates, as well as wildcard and multi-domain certificates.

Symantec (now part of DigiCert): Symantec was a leading SSL provider known for its strong security solutions and trusted SSL certificates. Following its acquisition by DigiCert, Symantec SSL certificates are now offered under the DigiCert brand, maintaining the same high level of security and trust.

GlobalSign: GlobalSign is a trusted SSL provider offering a wide range of SSL certificates, including DV, OV, and EV certificates, as well as wildcard and multi-domain certificates. They are known for their user-friendly interface and excellent customer support.

Entrust: Entrust is a reputable SSL provider offering high-assurance SSL certificates with strong encryption and authentication. They provide a variety of SSL certificate options, including OV and EV certificates, as well as wildcard and multi-domain certificates.

GeoTrust (now part of DigiCert): GeoTrust, now part of DigiCert, is known for its affordable SSL certificate solutions with fast issuance times. They offer a range of SSL certificates, including DV, OV, and EV certificates, as well as wildcard and multi-domain certificates.

RapidSSL (part of Sectigo): RapidSSL, a part of Sectigo, specializes in providing affordable DV SSL certificates with quick issuance times. They are ideal for small businesses and personal websites looking for basic SSL encryption.

Thawte (part of DigiCert): Thawte, now part of DigiCert, offers a variety of SSL certificates, including DV, OV, and EV certificates, as well as wildcard and multi-domain certificates. They are known for their global recognition and reliability.

GoDaddy: GoDaddy is a well-known SSL provider offering a range of SSL certificates, including DV, OV, and EV certificates, as well as wildcard and multi-domain certificates. They are popular for their competitive pricing and user-friendly interface.

Namecheap: Namecheap offers affordable SSL certificates with various options, including DV, OV, and EV certificates, as well as wildcard and multi-domain certificates. They are known for their straightforward pricing and easy setup process.

It's essential to evaluate your specific requirements and compare the features, pricing, and support offered by different SSL providers to choose the one that best fits your needs. Additionally, always ensure that the SSL provider you choose is trusted by major browsers and offers robust security features to protect your website and its visitors.