Disadvantages and Advantages of a Free SSL Certificate

SSL is a security technology that protects sensitive information from being seen while the information travelling from the web server and the browser. Normally without a SSL Certificate the information transmitted can be seen by a third party. For example imagine sending a clear envelope to the post office and everyone can see the information that you have in the clear envelope. If it looks valuable they can steal the information or alter it. The SSL creates a layer and scrambles the words which in return protects the information sent. This is called encryption which protects your information from being seen by unwanted users.

Each Certificate contains a private key and a public key. The public key scrambles the information. The private key unscrambles the code. When the browser points to a secured website there is a SSL transaction that will verify the authentication of the website, and the client.

Authentication also plays a major role with SSL encryption.

Each SSL is created for a specific domain for a verified business. When the transaction occurs it's like a handshake taking place in person. The SSL Certificate is verified. Authentication matters as if you were issued a Drivers license, birth certificate or a passport. Imagine getting a letter in the mail the letter is requesting that you enter your bank account information as well as other private information. You notice that envelope is missing a return address or any information regarding whose requesting the information. This is why authentication is important certificates are created for a particular server where the domain for a verified business entity.

Certificates are available in different levels, including a free SSL Certificate

The lowest level is domain verification (domain only) This is the lower end of certificates. With the minimum level of security the domain name is verified.

Company verification.

The domain name is verified and there is an extra step taken further. The SSL authority verify that the company actually exist and is securing the website.

The next level of SSL Certification is assurance SSL Certificates that is an extensive background check is performed for each applicant for physical existence, domain name, telephone number, individual authorisation, this is the most expensive type of certification. Corporations are the only entity allowed to use this type of SSL.

There are advantages and disadvantages with obtaining a free SSL certificate. One of the main disadvantages is that the site is not automatically trusted it may even appear as an un-trusted site. The main purpose of having a SSL Certificate is to assure the visitor that the business has been verified through a third party. However, registering for a free SSL Certificate appears less reliable and slower. Free SSL should not be used for secured payments.

For more information about a free ssl certificate such as wildcard ssl, apache ssl or general ssl encryption and security, visit SSL247.com, who are experts in the field.