Types of SSL Certificates

There are three categories for site certificates. They are referred as: DV, OV and EV.

Domain Validation Certificate

  • Cost: cheap or free
  • Days of processing: 1-2 business days
  • CA validation method: email or domain record
  • Browser display: a lock on the address bar
  • Suggested usage:
    • enable encrypted communications with a web site

Organization Validation Certificate

  • Cost: medium
  • Days of processing: 2-3 business days
  • CA validation method: email or domain record, addition with vetting of the organization
  • Browser display: a lock on the address bar
  • Suggested usage:
    • enable encrypted communications with a web site
    • provide an extra layer of confidence to vistors

Extended Validation Certificate

  • Cost: high
  • Day of processing: 5-10 business days
  • CA validation method: follow Guidelines for Extended Validation by the CA/Browser Forum, extra documentation must be provided
  • Browser display: address bar is displayed in green with the name of the company or organization
  • Suggested usage:
    • against phishing attacks
    • identify the legal entity that controls a web site
    • enable encrypted communications with a web site

The links below provide further information:

If you would like to protect your website with OV or EV certificate, please contact cchelp@ust.hk.