DV, OV, & EV SSL certificate validation levels explained

SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) / TLS (Transport Layer Security) certificates provide powerful protection, ensuring the privacy and integrity of online communication. Without these certificates, data could easily be exposed while in transit, increasing vulnerability to breaches and other cybersecurity concerns. Thankfully, SSL/TLS certificates provide a robust solution that safeguards the data of individuals and organizations during online communication.

The mechanisms behind SSL certificates can seem complex: they rely on a framework known as the Public Key Infrastructure (PKI), which uses asymmetric encryption involving openly shared public keys and secret private keys. In this system, a public key is used to encrypt information, and only the corresponding private key can decrypt it.

However, not all SSL certificates are created equal. The level of trust and assurance provided by an SSL certificate largely depends on the validation process conducted by Certificate Authorities (CAs). These authorities play a critical role in establishing trust on the internet by verifying the identities of entities seeking SSL certificates. There are three primary levels of validation—Domain Validation (DV), Organization Validation (OV), and Extended Validation (EV)—each offering a different level of trust. Choosing the ‘right’ level of validation involves exploring factors such as cost, compliance requirements, and the desired level of security and trust for your website or application.

Looking to understand the different SSL validation levels before making a purchase? Below, we explore what sets DV, OV, and EV certificates apart — while also highlighting which types of SSL certificates are preferable under various circumstances.

What is a Domain Validation SSL certificate?

Domain Validation certificates offer the lowest level of validation. This approach is best known for its streamlined vetting process, in which the Certificate Authority (CA) merely confirms that the applicant has control over the domain in question. Basic encryption can be expected, but with a major caveat: this provides minimal assurance regarding the identity of the organization in question. Still, DV certificates can be valuable for establishing a basic level of trust.

Why it's used

DV SSL certificates can be useful for individuals or businesses requiring the fundamental protection of a digital certificate — but without taking the extra steps (or paying the added fees) that may accompany more in-depth validation processes. Quick and easy to secure (can be issued in just minutes), this type of certificate is most valued when encryption is a priority but when there is not as strong of a need to demonstrate legitimacy.

DV SSL certificates work well for internal sites, test domains, and test servers where encryption is necessary to secure data transmission, but public trust and organizational authentication are less critical. However, because DV certificates only verify domain ownership and do not authenticate the legitimacy of the organization behind the website, they are not recommended for eCommerce sites or any platforms that collect sensitive data such as personal information, payment details, or login credentials.

What is an Organization Validation SSL certificate?

Representing a valuable middle ground between DV and EV, Organization Validation certificates go beyond simple domain ownership verification to confirm the identity of the organization seeking the certificate — hence the use of the term 'organization' to identify this type of certificate.

To verify the organization's identity, the CA may check government databases or business directories, along with contact information such as the organization's physical address to confirm it is a legally registered business. Furthermore, this verification check may reference the person seeking the certificate on the organization's behalf to verify if this individual is authorized to do so.

Why it's used

Some organizations may require stronger security than what DV certificates offer but might not need to commit to the extra steps needed for extended validation. This is when OV SSL certificates are used. They provide a balance by securing sensitive data without the rigorous validation process that comes with EV certificates.

As a result, OV SSL certificates offer a solid, budget-friendly solution that’s ideal for many small businesses (SMBs) and nonprofit organizations looking for reliable security without overcomplicating the process. Websites strictly focused on content or personal blogs may also benefit from OV certificates, as they can secure the connection without the need for higher-level validation. This type, however, is still not recommended for eCommerce websites.

What is an Extended Validation certificate?

Extended Validation (EV) SSL certificates promise the highest level of trust and security. Requiring a more thorough validation process, this type of certificate clears all the benchmarks established through DV and OV processes (such as checking the domain and the identity of the organization) but includes further vetting that is completed by a human. This could involve official legal documents, such as the organization's articles of incorporation. This can confirm that the required organization is actively operated.

The EV SSL validation process may also involve detailed background checks, with CAs looking to numerous legal filings and databases to provide a wealth of organization-specific details. Furthermore, stringent verification processes can reveal whether requesting organizations have the exclusive authority to use a particular domain name.

To bring structure to these processes, the CA/Browser Forum has developed stringent EV guidelines. CAs must closely adhere to these requirements when conducting validation checks. Other forms of validation offer more flexibility —but with EV validation, requesting organizations can take confidence in knowing that CAs have followed a detail-oriented process and gone to great lengths to confirm identities.

At one time, EV certificates also stood out because they involved green address bars. While web browsers have moved away from this, EV certificates can still establish a visual element of trust via padlock icons.

Why it's used

Extended validation SSL certificates are the industry standard for eCommerce websites and are critical for any other type of business that deals with sensitive data. EV certificates are necessary when maximum security and credibility are required. From online retailers to financial institutions, organizations can take extra steps to safeguard communication and build trust with their customers by implementing EV certificates.

In some industries, there is also a stronger need to establish a high level of trust with potential customers or clients, who may otherwise be unwilling to share personal details or complete transactions. Finally, extended validation may be outright required in certain sectors, allowing organizations to comply with strict regulatory requirements.

DV vs OV vs EV SSL certificates

When weighing the pros and cons associated with DV, OV, and EV certificates, there are a few main distinctions to consider. Here's a quick breakdown of how they compare across important factors like security level, validation process, issuance time, and cost.

Security level

• DV SSL: Provides basic encryption. Ideal for internal sites, test domains, and test servers.

• OV SSL: Offers a higher level of trust by verifying the organization’s identity, making it ideal for personal websites, blogs, or small businesses that do not handle sensitive information.

• EV SSL: Provides the highest level of security, making it essential for eCommerce, financial institutions, or any site dealing with highly sensitive transactions.

Validation process

• DV SSL: The simplest validation method, only verifies domain ownership.

• OV SSL: Involves verifying both domain ownership and the legitimacy of the organization.

• EV SSL: Requires the most thorough vetting, including detailed checks on the organization’s physical and operational existence.

Issuance time

• DV SSL: Issued quickly, often within minutes to a few hours.

• OV SSL: Takes longer, usually 1-3 days due to additional organization verification.

• EV SSL: The most time-consuming, typically taking 1-5 days or more due to the in-depth validation process.

Cost

• DV SSL: The most affordable option, suited for those with lower security needs.

• OV SSL: Moderately priced, balancing security with cost for businesses.

• EV SSL: The most expensive, but provides the highest level of trust and assurance for businesses and enterprises handling sensitive information.

Which SSL certificate is best for your website?

No one level of validation is ideal in every situation. Choosing the right SSL certificate depends on the purpose of the website in question. If sensitive data does not enter the picture and the certificate will be used in an internal environment, DV may be sufficient — especially when seeking budget-friendly solutions or a streamlined process. If, however, there is a need to develop user trust or live up to heightened consumer expectations, OV may prove preferable. If your website or application will need to collect sensitive data, it’s best to stick with the extended validation type.

Keep in mind that there is far more to SSL certificate selection than validation level. These considerations may differ when dealing with single domains versus multiple domains, for example, with additional nuances coming into play when implementing on a main domain with subdomains. This is where Wildcard SSL certificates can prove valuable, offering the opportunity to secure a single domain along with unlimited subdomains — but while using just one digital certificate.

Explore Sectigo's SSL Certificates

As you develop a strategy for protecting your website via SSL/TLS certificates, be mindful of validation levels. With the right approach, you can feel confident that your certificates promote sufficient website security without causing additional trust or compliance concerns.

You will find plenty of options available through Sectigo — including not only DV, OV, and EV SSL certificates, but also, wildcard and multi-domain SSL certificates. Take a closer look at our certificate options or examine our comparison resources so you can make an informed decision.

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