Getting started with your SSL certificate

Getting started with your SSL certificate

SSL certificates encrypt data between a browser and web server, protecting sensitive info (e.g., billing details). A lock icon in the browser indicates SSL is active.

Coverage rules:
* Certificates for www.example.com also cover example.com (root domain).
* Other subdomains are not included unless specified in the CSR.
* Domains cannot be changed after issuance.

What SSL does:
* Encrypts data in transit
* Verifies domain/organization identity

CSR (Certificate Signing Request):
* Contains domain, organization info, location, and public key
* Must be generated on the hosting server before issuance

Certificate types:
* SAN (Multi-domain): Covers multiple domains/subdomains (expandable)
* Wildcard: Covers unlimited subdomains for one domain

Validation levels:
* DV: 1–2 days, email verification
* OV: 1–3 days, business verification + phone check
* EV: 1–10 days, full organization + requester verification

Upgrading:
* Certificates cannot be upgraded after purchase
* Buy a new one if needed; install alongside the old or wait until expiry

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