What is EV SSL and What Does it Do?
Internet security is more important than ever today. Protecting our personal information, financial data, and other sensitive content has become a critical requirement for staying safe in the online world. This is where EV SSL (Extended Validation SSL) certificates come into play. In this article, we will examine in detail what EV SSL is, how it works, its differences from other SSL types, and why it is important.
Basic Definition and Purpose of EV SSL Certificate
EV SSL (Extended Validation SSL) is a type of SSL certificate that verifies the identity of a website and allows it to establish a secure connection with its visitors. However, unlike other SSL certificates, organizations must go through a stricter verification process to obtain an EV SSL certificate. This process involves proving that the organization is legally existing, has a physical address, and is managed by authorized individuals. This rigorous verification process gives websites with EV SSL certificates a higher level of reliability.
The main purpose of an EV SSL certificate is to show website visitors that the organization operating the site is real and reliable. In this way, users can share their personal information, credit card information, and other sensitive data with peace of mind. Especially for e-commerce sites, online banking platforms, and other websites offering financial services, an EV SSL certificate is vital for increasing customer trust and reducing the risk of fraud.
What are the Differences Between EV SSL and Other SSL Types?
SSL certificates are divided into different types according to their validation levels. The most common SSL types include Domain Validated (DV) SSL, Organization Validated (OV) SSL, and Extended Validation (EV) SSL. The main differences between EV SSL and other SSL types are as follows:
Verification Process:
- DV SSL: The most basic type of SSL. Only the ownership of the domain name is verified. It can be obtained quickly and easily.
- OV SSL: Basic information such as the organization's name and address is verified. It is more reliable than DV SSL.
- EV SSL: Has the most comprehensive verification process. The organization's legal existence, physical address, authorized individuals, and other important information are examined in detail.
Browser Indicator:
- DV SSL and OV SSL: Only a lock icon is displayed in the browser address bar.
- EV SSL: In addition to the lock icon, the organization's name is also displayed in green in the browser address bar. This gives visitors the highest level of trust. For example, if a bank's website has an EV SSL certificate, the bank's name will appear in green in the address bar.
Reliability Level:
EV SSL offers the highest level of reliability. Thanks to the comprehensive verification process, visitors can be sure that the website is reliable. This is especially important when sensitive information is shared.
Advantages and Disadvantages of EV SSL
EV SSL certificates have many advantages, but some disadvantages should also be considered.
Advantages:
- High Reliability: Thanks to the most comprehensive verification process, it gives visitors the highest level of trust.
- Increased Customer Trust: The green address bar and the display of the organization's name increase customer trust and increase conversion rates.
- Improved Brand Image: An EV SSL certificate shows that your brand is reliable and professional.
- SEO Advantage: Search engines like Google list secure websites (HTTPS) higher in search results.
- Protection Against Phishing Attacks: EV SSL protects users against fake websites.
Disadvantages:
- High Cost: More expensive than other SSL types.
- Long Verification Process: Due to the comprehensive verification process, it may take longer to obtain.
- Complex Application Process: The application process is more complex than other SSL types and may require more documents.
How to Get an EV SSL Certificate?
You can follow the steps below to obtain an EV SSL certificate:
- Choosing a Certificate Provider: Choose a reliable SSL certificate provider. For example, you can prefer well-known providers such as Comodo, DigiCert, GlobalSign.
- Creating a Certificate Request (CSR): Create a Certificate Signing Request (CSR) on your web server. This request contains data such as your domain name, organization name, and other basic information.
- Filling Out the Application Form: Fill out the application form of the certificate provider you have chosen. In this form, you will need to provide detailed information about your organization.
- Verification Process: The certificate provider will contact you to verify the information you provided. In this process, you may need to prove your organization's legal documents, physical address, and authorized individuals.
- Certificate Installation: After the verification process is complete, the certificate provider will send you your SSL certificate. Install this certificate on your web server.
EV SSL Certificate Usage Areas
EV SSL certificates are widely used especially in the following areas:
- E-commerce Sites: To protect customer credit card information and other sensitive data.
- Online Banking Platforms: To ensure the security of customer account information and financial transactions.
- Websites Offering Financial Services: Investment platforms, insurance companies, etc.
- Healthcare Organizations: To protect the confidentiality of patient information.
- Government Agencies: To ensure the security of citizen information and public services.
Conclusion and Summary
EV SSL (Extended Validation SSL) certificate is the most reliable type of SSL used to verify the identity of a website and establish a secure connection with its visitors. Thanks to the comprehensive verification process, it gives visitors the highest level of trust and increases customer confidence. Although its high cost and complex application process are disadvantages, EV SSL is a security measure worth investing in, especially for e-commerce sites, online banking platforms, and other websites offering financial services. Every organization that wants to ensure the security of internet users and protect its brand reputation should consider the EV SSL certificate.