A Wildcard SSL certificate is a type of SSL (Secure Sockets
Layer) certificate that allows you to secure multiple subdomains with a single
certificate. It is called a "wildcard" because it uses the wildcard
symbol (*) to represent any subdomain. For example, a Wildcard SSL certificate
for the domain "example.com" can secure the following subdomains:
- www.example.com
- mail.example.com
- login.example.com
- shop.example.com
SSL certificates are important because they encrypt the connection between a visitor's web browser and your website, protecting sensitive information such as login credentials, credit card numbers, and personal data from being intercepted by hackers. A cheap wildcard certificate can solve all your problem related to the security of your website. Consider SSLs.com to buy an affordable SSL certificate.
Why do you need a Wildcard SSL certificate?
If you have multiple subdomains and want to secure them all with SSL, you can either get a separate SSL certificate for each subdomain or use a Wildcard SSL certificate to secure them all with a single certificate. The latter option is more cost-effective and time-saving.
Types of Wildcard SSL Certificates
There are three types of Wildcard SSL certificates based on the level of validation:
Domain Validated (DV) Wildcard SSL
DV Wildcard SSL is the most basic type of Wildcard SSL certificate. It is issued based on the validation of the ownership of the domain. DV Wildcard SSL certificates are issued quickly, usually within a few minutes, and are the least expensive option.
Organization Validated (OV) Wildcard SSL
OV Wildcard SSL requires a higher level of validation than DV Wildcard SSL. In addition to verifying the ownership of the domain, OV Wildcard SSL also requires the validation of the organization's legal existence and identity. OV Wildcard SSL certificates are issued within a few days and are more expensive than DV Wildcard SSL.
Extended Validation (EV) Wildcard SSL
EV Wildcard SSL is the highest level of Wildcard SSL available. It requires the most extensive validation process, including the validation of the organization's legal existence, identity, and physical address. EV Wildcard SSL certificates are issued within a few days and are the most expensive option.
Benefits of Using a Wildcard SSL Certificate
There are several benefits to using a Wildcard SSL
certificate:
Secure Multiple Subdomains with a Single Certificate: As
mentioned earlier, a Wildcard SSL certificate allows you to secure multiple
subdomains with a single certificate. This is especially useful if you have a
large number of subdomains and don't want to purchase separate SSL certificates
for each one.
Cost-effectiveness: Wildcard SSL certificates allow you to
secure multiple subdomains on a single domain with a single certificate, rather
than purchasing a separate certificate for each subdomain. This can be a more
cost-effective solution for businesses with a large number of subdomains.
Simplified management: Instead of having to manage and renew
multiple SSL certificates for different subdomains, you can simply manage a
single wildcard certificate. This saves time and reduces the risk of
certificate expiration or mismanagement.
Improved security: By securing all subdomains with a single
wildcard certificate, you can improve the overall security of your domain. This
is especially important if you have subdomains that handle sensitive
information, such as login pages or e-commerce transactions.
Enhanced customer trust: Customers are more likely to trust
and engage with websites that are properly secured with SSL encryption. By
using a wildcard SSL certificate,
you can show customers that you are serious about protecting their data and
transactions, which can help to increase customer trust and loyalty.