SSL Certificates: Securing Online Connections

a) What is an SSL certificate ?

An SSL certificate is a web server file that provides cryptographic security for online communications. It encrypts data sent between a web server and a user’s browser, preventing unauthorized access. SSL certificates also inspire trust by containing identity information. The issuing certificate authority verifies the organization’s information, encoding it into the SSL certificate. SSL certificates are used for internet security and mail server security.

b) What is a RapidSSL certificate ?

RapidSSL certificates are digital certificates that offer a cost-effective solution for protecting websites. They verify domain ownership and use strong encryption to establish secure connections between a visitor’s browser and the server. Ideal for small to medium-sized websites, they provide encryption and trust metrics, making them a practical and affordable option for online communication security.

c) What is a RapidSSL wildcard certificate ?

The RapidSSL Wildcard Certificate is a cost-effective, streamlined digital security solution that protects a domain and its subdomains with a single SSL/TLS certificate. It’s ideal for organizations managing multiple subdomains and small to medium-sized businesses or websites. Its strong encryption protocol ensures data confidentiality and security.

d) What is a Single-Root SSL certificate ?

Single-Root SSL certificates are used to secure web connections, allowing visitors to trust the website’s security. Most SSL certificates are issued by trusted CAs like Digicert or RapidSSL. Some browsers use a “chained root” to make their certificates trusted, but this requires additional installation work for the web server to have the chained root certificate installed.

e) What is a Free SSL certificate ?

Free SSL is a 30-day, fully trusted single-root test certificate for server testing or short-term SSL needs. It has similar browser recognition rates to RapidSSL and RapidSSL Wildcard and is easy to upgrade. However, you cannot reissue a free SSL certificate, but you can request a new one to replace an expired one.