In regards to safeguarding internet-based correspondence and upholding the privacy and authenticity of transmitted data, there is a tendency to confuse SSL certificates with digital certificates. However, SSL certificates and digital certificates are not entirely the same thing, although they share some similarities.

This article will explore the differences and similarities between SSL certificates and digital certificates and their roles in securing online communication.

What Is An SSL Certificate?

An SSL certificate is a type of digital certificate that provides secure and encrypted communication between a web server and a user's web browser. SSL certificates are used to authenticate the identity of the website owner and encrypt the data transmitted over the Internet.

SSL certificates are issued by a trusted third-party called a Certificate Authority (CA) which verifies the genuine identity of the website and issues a digital certificate containing the website's public key. The website owner installs the SSL certificate on their web server, which enables the web server to establish a secure and encrypted connection with a user's web browser.

When users visit a website secured by an SSL certificate, the web browser initiates a handshake process with the web server in order to establish a secure and encrypted connection. During the handshake, the web server presents its SSL certificate to the browser and the latter verifies the legitimacy of the certificate, after which they decide on a cipher suite and exchange keys.

What Is A Digital Certificate?

A digital certificate, also known as a public key certificate, is a digital document that authenticates the identity of an entity, such as an individual, organization, or a website. It is also issued by Certificate Authorities after verifying the identity of the entity and its public key.

Digital certificates contain the entity's public key, its name, the name of the CA that issued the certificate, and a digital signature that verifies the authenticity of the certificate. In the face of widespread cyberattacks and cyber threats nowadays, they are essential to ensure the security of online activities by verifying identity and encrypting all data exchanged.

In addition to the aforementioned SSL certificates, there are also other types of digital certificates. For example:

Code Signing Certificates: These are used by software developers to sign their code, establish reputation and increase user confidence. This also helps to prevent against malicious tampering with the code.

Document Signing Certificates: These are used to sign digital documents such as PDFs and Word documents, verifying their authenticity and integrity.

S/MIME: Used to encrypt and sign email messages, ensuring that only the intended recipient can read the message and verifying the sender's identity.

To learn more about digital certificates, please visit nicsrs.com.

SSL Certificates vs. Digital Certificates

The SSL certificate is one kind of digital certificate. While they both can be used to ensure data integrity and identity authentication, there are some key differences.

Relations. The SSL certificate is a specific type of digital certificate used to secure online communications and transactions, such as online shopping and banking. Digital certificates, on the other hand, are a more general term that can refer to any type of digital certificates used for authentication, including SSL certificates.

Serve different purposes. SSL certificates are specifically used to provide authentication and encryption for websites. Digital certificates, on the other hand, serve a broader range of purposes, such as authenticating the identity of users and devices. Additionally, SSL certificates are typically issued for a shorter validity period than other digital certificates.

Conclusion

In summary, SSL certificates and digital certificates are not the same thing, although they share many similarities. Most companies will equip their websites with SSL certificates to protect the security of their websites and boost users’ trust. If you need to purchase an SSL certificate or other digital certificates, NicSRS is your go-to choice as we have a comprehensive range of products provided at affordable prices.