Businesses frequently encounter two types of certificate options for acquiring multiple domains: OV Multi-Domain SSL and SAN SSL. Businesses may find themselves faced with two types of certificate options when purchasing multiple domains: OV Multi-Domain SSL and SAN SSL. Both types of certificates can include several domains in one certificate, but they have some significant differences in the amount of identity verification required. These differences enable businesses to choose which option fits their operational needs and preference for proven organizational trust in all the domains they are covered.
1. Verification Level Differences
Normally, Standard SAN SSL only needs to be validated for each domain in the SAN, but not for the business behind it. OV Multi-Domain SSL is an additional level, where the certificate authority verifies the legal existence and registration of the organization that is requesting the certificate.
2. Trust Signals Presented to Visitors
When checking certificate information, visitors may view additional information about the organization, since OV Multi-Domain SSL contains verified business information. Without this verification, standard SAN SSL only verifies encrypted, domain-validated connections, but does not include any business identity information.
The complexity of the issuance process and the time required to issue.
In general, standard SAN SSL is issued quicker as it is based on automated domain validation only. Businesses must consider the time it takes to issue, as OV Multi-Domain SSL requires a manual verification process to verify the business’s legitimacy.
4. Cost Comparison
OV Multi-Domain SSL is generally more expensive than standard SAN SSL, due to the extra verification process. The cost and the added trust and credibility must be considered in light of the business’s customer base and risk profile.
5. Best Fit Scenarios
Standard SAN SSL is suitable for businesses that primarily require efficient encryption over a number of domains but have less of a requirement for visible identity verification. For businesses looking for the convenience of multiple domains alongside enhanced trust and security measures for their visitors, OV Multi-Domain SSL is the better option.
6. Compliance and Regulatory Requirements
For organizations in regulated sectors, like finance, healthcare, government or legal services, the organization validation provided by OV Multi-Domain SSL can be more beneficial in proving the identity of the certificate holder. The extra business verification provided by OV certificates can help with regulatory compliance and add to customer trust in environments where trust is paramount, while both OV Multi-Domain SSL and SAN SSL are excellent for providing strong encryption.
8. Customer Support and Training
Businesses should also take into account their future plans when deciding on certificate programs. OV Multi-Domain SSL is ideal for companies that anticipate expanding their web presence and want to keep a verified corporate identity on a number of domains. For businesses that need to secure multiple domains, but don’t expect high interaction or brand visibility, Standard SAN SSL is still a great option. For businesses that expect more interactions from customers, or higher brand visibility, OV Multi-Domain SSL may be worth the extra trust over time.
Conclusion
The decision between OV Multi-Domain SSL and standard SAN SSL hinges on the importance of verified organizational trust and convenience of multiple domains to your business. Standard SAN SSL may be the best option for businesses that value speed and cost efficiency, whereas OV Multi-Domain SSL may be worth the extra investment for businesses seeking to build greater credibility on all their domains. When considering your customer’s expectations and budget, make sure you take your time to make the right choice for you.