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What is an SSL certificate and how does it work?

SSL stands for "Secure Sockets Layer" and an SSL certificate is a file that, once installed on a web server, allows the servers authentication by the competent authority. This then allows the secure and full transmission of data sent between the website's visitor and the receiving server.

Once you decide to activate a type of SSL certificate on your server, you will have to answer several questions to prove the identity of your website and your company. From then on, your web server will create and encrypt two digital keys: one public and one private. It is important that the private key is kept secret and not revealed to anyone. The public key, in turn, is created through a CSR (Certificate Signing Request) and is a set of characters that will contain your public information. This key does not need to be kept secret, since it serves precisely to disseminate its authenticity.

After making the necessary verification, the relevant authority will validate your certificate via web browsers that, in turn, establish encrypted connections between the services hosted on the server (email, website, etc.) and computers using that browser during navigation.

HTTPS: Protocol ensuring web browsing with SSL certificates

HTTP: When browsing websites with no safety certification.

What is a certifying authority?

The certifying authority is responsible for associating a given domain to its specific certificate and respective owner. It is also responsible for any issues related to expiration dates, renewals, and the revocation of certificates. We can assist you in this process, helping you choose the best suited entity to meet your needs and expectations.

What is an intermediate SSL certificate authority?

Without this intermediate body, it may seem that the certificate does not "work" correctly in Firefox. Therefore, this intermediary functions as a public infrastructure which guarantees the validity of your certificate.

It is also important for you to download and install your supplier’s intermediate certificate along with your SSL certificate, ensuring that visitors to your website can consult and verify the security of the connection.

How many servers can be secured with an SSL certificate?

A certificate relates to a specific domain and not to the IP address of a server hosting the security service. Even if your service is hosted on different servers, you will only need a single certificate. However, if you intend to certify different sub-domains, you will need to use a so-called "multiple address" certificate.

Does the SSL certificate used by Inventa support SAN (subject alternative names)?

Yes, with the proviso that this service involves multi-domain certificates, which are only available for basic or business certificates. If you wish to use this service, you should define your main domain in your CSR and fill out your alternative names during the ordering process for your certificate.