Domain Validated (DV) SSL Certificates
Domain Validated SSL certificates, also known as entry-level certificates, are among the most widely used certificate types in the world. That's because these certificates can be issued in as little as 2 to 10 minutes, depending on the brand. No documentation is required to get this type of certificate, and the process is very simple. All you need to do is verify that you own the domain, and there's 1 primary and 2 alternative methods to do that.
Entry-level SSL certificates are among the fastest-issued certificate types since they don't require documents. This type of certificate is ideal for small sites and small projects. For projects where you don't need to build a lot of trust with your visitors and customers, a Domain Validation SSL certificate is enough. These certificates usually come with static security logos, though some — like Thawte SSL 123 and Sectigo SSL Certificate — also offer dynamic site seals.
Validation Methods
Here are the validation methods available for Domain Validated (DV) SSL certificates:
1. Email Validation (DCV Email)
This method is documented on many websites and blogs. Essentially, the Certificate Authority (CA) sends you a confirmation email to verify domain ownership. This email can be sent to an address listed in your domain's Whois record, or to one of the "golden five" addresses:
- admin@
- administrator@
- hostmaster@
- postmaster@
- webmaster@
2. Validation via DNS CNAME
If your email server isn't configured, or your Whois email is hidden behind privacy protection, validation via DNS CNAME is a very popular alternative. This method requires adding a special record to your DNS settings. The Certificate Authority checks this record and the process happens fully automatically.
3. Validation Using a Hash File (HTTP CSR Hash)
This method is even simpler. The Certificate Authority gives you a special .txt file, which you're asked to upload to your server. The Certificate Authority verifies the file's presence and the certificate is issued automatically.
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