How to Pick an SSL Provider
A SSL (Secured Socket Layer) provider is a firm that issues digital security certificates. The role of this company is to act as a third party responsible for verifying that certificates provided by secured sites are valid. Certificates are used to increase the level of security on the Internet by using a third party to verify that each party in the transaction is truly who they claim to be.
- Difficulty:
- Moderate
Instructions
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1
Determine the type of certificate that you want. If you are securing your website for the purpose of collecting credit card information via the Internet, then you will need to be able to assure users that their data is secure.
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2
Check the type of certificates the company provides and select the one appropriate to your needs. Depending on the certificate purchased, you will be able to secure email, electronic commerce websites, public Internet accessible websites and internal staff intranets.
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3
Review the company history. Companies typically include their industry and typically clients to give an idea of their reputation in the industry
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4
Read the support documentation to determine the level of customer support that you can expect.
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5
Confirm that the liability policy and statement ensure the responsibility for any breaches are clearly defines.
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6
Purchase a trial version and install it. Validate their installation instructions and test.
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7
Ensure that you have a registered domain name for Internet servers. Once this is done, you will be able to purchase the full version of the certificate.
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1
Tips & Warnings
The most important feature of an SSL provider is their viability and ability to provide service throughout the contract term. The least cost option may not be the best solution.
