An SSL certificate allows your computer to validate that you're communicating with the website server that you expect. In other words, it helps to prevent malicious third party interception and data theft.
To protect sensitive information exchange such as username / password login forms, personal information such as names and addresses entered during an order process, and of course eCommerce transaction security.
SSL certificates rely on a concept of trust by association. Certificate authorities issue certificates with a cryptographic relationship to the pre-trusted ones already configured within web browsers - it's basically like your best friend introducing you to their friend; you would trust your best friend's endorsement.
| Standard | Wildcard | Extended Validation | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Typical Issuance Time | Less than 1 hour | Less than 1 hour | 3 - 5 days |
| Validation Method | Email Domain Control A validation email is sent to a specific authoritative email address on certificate domain name. |
Email Domain Control A validation email is sent to a specific authoritative email address on certificate domain name. |
Human Verfied Against Official Records Company incorporation status, physical trading address, telephone number and authority of the applicant to request a certificate on behalf of the company are all independently human verified. |
| Assurance Level | Low | Low | High |
| Supported Encryption | 2048 bit signatures provide up to 256 bit encryption | 2048 bit signatures provide up to 256 bit encryption | 2048 bit signatures provide up to 256 bit encryption |
| Periods Available | 1 year | 1 year | 1 year |
| Site Seal |  Yes (optional) |
Yes (optional) |
Yes (optional) |
| Ideal For | When you need encryption but user trust is unimportant (i.e. if user already trusts you and just needs an encrypted connection with your server) | A low cost way to secure multiple subdomains at once. Covers an unlimited number of subdomains, so you can secure all *.domain.com for a single flat rate charge. | eCommerce sites - shown to decrease cart abandonment by over 30%. Increases website visitor trust by its rigorous validation process. |
| Pricing / Order | Request Details | Request Details | Request Details |