Making your website secure with an SSL certificate is one of the most important steps you need to take for your business growth. SSL certificates protect your data and help people trust you, whether you have a small business website, an e-commerce store, or a corporate platform. Domain Validation (DV SSL Certificate), Organization Validation (OV SSL Certificate), and Extended Validation (EV SSL Certificate) are some of the most common SSL certificates. Let’s look in detail at each certificate and make the right decision on how much security you need for your business.
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What is a Domain Validation Certificate?
A Domain Validation (DV) SSL certificate is the basic type of SSL. This certificate checks whether the person applying for validation owns the domain name. The domain validation process is quick and often done automatically. All you need to do is verify your email or check your DNS records.
If you’re just starting out and need a cheap SSL certificate or are looking for a free SSL certificate, then a DV SSL is a great choice. It is totally free and keeps your data secure, and doesn’t reveal any information about the company. This validation is great for blogs, personal websites, and new businesses that are looking to try out online platforms.
Learn more about how to get a free SSL certificate with hosting.
Why Do You Need a Domain Validation SSL Certificate?
You need a domain validation SSL certificate, no matter whether you are a small business owner or run an enterprise. It is an inexpensive way to secure your website, as this certificate encrypts your company’s private data, like login information and form submissions. After the complete validation process, a padlock symbol is shown in the browser with your domain name, and the status moves from HTTP to HTTPS, which builds trust among the customers. Additionally, it helps with SEO rankings as Google recognizes your website’s authority and prefers HTTPS-enabled websites.
Check out the web hosting for small businesses in the USA to pair with your SSL certificate.
What is Organization Validation (OV SSL Certificate)?
An organization validation SSL certificate gives you a higher level of confidence and trust. This is not the same as a DV SSL. The OV certificate validation process checks both domain ownership and business identity. Certificate Authorities will verify the information you gave them about your business registration to make sure your company is real.
OV SSL certificates are great for business websites, government portals, and organizations that want to make sure visitors know about their authenticity.
Secure your website with business website hosting and an OV SSL certificate.
What is an Extended Validation (EV)SSL Certificate?
An Extended Validation certificate (EV SSL) provides the strictest level of verification. The Certificate Authority ensures that the business is operational, has a physical address, and is legally registered. When you get an EV SSL, the company name appears in your browser’s address bar, offering maximum trust to the customers.
Businesses, banks, and online stores often use EV SSL certificates to show that they care about the security of their customers. This is a cheap SSL certificate, but it will make you feel secure like nothing else.
Businesses looking for complete online security often combine EV SSL with fully managed IT solutions.
Difference Between DV, OV, and EV SSL Certificates
| Feature | DV SSL Certificate (Domain Validation) | OV SSL Certificate (Organization Validation) | EV SSL Certificate (Extended Validation) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Validation Level | Validates domain ownership only | Validates domain + business details | Validates domain + legal, physical, and operational existence |
| Validation Process | Quick, automated (email/DNS check) | Requires business verification (documents) | Extensive review of business, legal records, and physical address |
| Issued Time | Minutes to a few hours | 1–3 days | 3–7 days |
| Trust Level | Basic trust (padlock in browser) | Higher trust with business details confirmed | Maximum trust with business name displayed in the browser address bar |
| Best For | Blogs, personal sites, small startups | Business websites, government portals | Banks, eCommerce, enterprises |
| Cost | Free or cheap SSL certificate | Mid-range pricing | Premium pricing (most expensive) |
| Browser Display | Padlock icon only | Padlock + organization details in certificate | Padlock + company name in browser bar (in supported browsers) |
| SEO Benefit | Yes | Yes | Yes |
To maximize visibility, pair SSL with SEO services for your business website.
Final Thoughts
Whether you get a Domain Validated SSL certificate, an Organization Validated SSL certificate, or an Extended Validation certificate, it is important for building trust and keeping user data safe. New businesses can get a free SSL certificate to get started, but as they grow, they should purchase an OV or EV SSL certificate to make their business look more trustworthy. To keep your website secure, fast, and reliable, host it with a business website hosting company like Webfoundr that also offers fully managed IT solutions.