SSL Server Certificates
There are several different types of SSL certificates available, but I'll be using Thawte
and VeriSign as our examples for their popularity.
When ever you require your website visitors to supply sensitive information via forms on
your site (ie. credit card, social security, bank numbers), it is highly recommended that some
type of secured server be involved in the transaction.
This is usually handled two different ways by hosting services...
One technique is to use the hosting service's ssl certificate, which has been issued to them
by Thawte or VeriSign, and contains their contact information (this is usually worded as,
ssl server access). This is commonly used with hosting services, because they can offer a free
secured server with their hosting package.
The second technique, also known as the proper method, is to purchase your own ssl certificate
(don't do this unless you consult your hosting service first, other wise you might be wasting money).
Using our service as an example... We supply a certificate signer (Thawte or VeriSign) a "key"
from our secured server, they than return us a certificate that we now install on our server, containing
information specific to your company. This information can be viewed by double clicking on the
golden pad lock at the bottom of a browser window once you've entered a secured web page.
In order for your business to obtain it's own certificate, requirements will be needed on your
part for the certificate signer to verify you are, who you say you are. The easiest verification
being a DUNS Number,
other wise be prepared to submit paperwork (even if we know who you are).
For more information, feel free to contact us...
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