SSL Certificates
When information travels across online networks without SSL encryption, that data is in full view of potential identity thieves. Secure Sockets Layer Certificates (SSLs) are used to encrypt data and authenticate parties, so that only those authorised are able to access and use the data.
A SSL Certificate is created for a particular server in a specific domain and is verified against a particular business entity. It acts like a passport or a driving licence and can only be issued by a trusted authority (such as VeriSign).
How do SSL Certificates work?
SSL Certificates work by using a public key to encrypt information and a private key to decipher it. When a browser points to a secured domain, a SSL handshake authenticates between the server and the client, and establishes both an encryption method and a unique session key. The user can then begin a secure session that guarantees message integrity.
If you do not already have SSLs for your domain names, NetNames can provide you with a number of different options:
- Domain Validated (DV) SSL Certificates: The Certificate Authority authenticates the right of the applicant to use a specific domain. Corporate information is not vetted or displayed on the certificate
- Organisation Validated (OV) Certificates: The Certificate Authority conducts some organisational vetting as well as verifying the right of the applicant to use a specific domain. Company information is displayed on the certificate
- Extended Validation (EV) Certificates: The Certificate Authority undertakes an extensive vetting of the applicant organisation including verifying the legal, physical and operational existence of the entity, matching the entity with official records, confirming that the applicant has exclusive right to use the domain, verifying that the real applicant has authorised the issuance of the certificate
Free SSL Certificate audit
NetNames can check the status of your SSL Certificates by offering you a no obligation SSL Certificate audit to highlight:
- The number of SSL Certificates on your websites (on external sites only)
- Current providers of your SSL Certificates
- The expiration date of your SSL Certificates
If you would like to more information about commissioning a free audit of your certificates please contact NetNames.
