Advanced SSL

What Is a .pem File? Navigating Its Creation, Use, and Conversion in SSL

Imagine this: you’re on the verge of securing your website with an SSL certificate to provide visitors with a trusted, encrypted connection. You’ve heard it’s essential in protecting sensitive data and boosting your website’s credibility. But as you install your cert, you need a .pem file to complete the configuration. So, what is a .pem […]

How to Pass Domain Control Validation (DCV)?

Domain Control Validation (DCV) helps prevent the unauthorized issuance of SSL certificates. Without it, SSL activation is not possible. This guide covers the DCV process and shows you how to pass it in several ways. Use the DCV method for SSL certs most suitable to your skills and situation.

What Is SHA-256 Algorithm & How It Works

A common specification of all SSL certificates, irrespective of brand, price, and type, is the SHA-256 algorithm. You will see a mention of it in the certificate’s details or the features listed on the product’s information. For non-techies, SHA-256 is usually a complete mystery. In this article, we want to show you what is SHA-256 […]

What Is OCSP Stapling and How to Use It?

A valid SSL certificate signed by a trusted Certificate Authority is mandatory today for all websites. If your certificate has expired or has been revoked, browsers will not trust it anymore. Browsers use the Online Certificate Status Protocol (OCSP) to determine the validity of your SSL certificate. However, the original OCSP has a few shortcomings, […]

Port 443 Explained: What Is It and Why to Use It

In a world where secure internet use is no longer a luxury but a necessity, understanding the role of Port 443 is essential. This port, crucial for online security, is the gateway for HTTPS traffic, ensuring that your private information remains just that — private. As we increasingly rely on digital transactions and communications, knowing […]

SSL Certificate Without a Domain Name. Is It Possible?

Every website needs an SSL certificate these days to remain accessible via Chrome, Firefox, Safari, or other popular browsers. If you don’t secure your site, browsers will flag it as unsafe, and your content won’t feature in search engine results pages. But can you get an SSL certificate without a domain name? This article provides […]

Best Practices to Store the Private Key

The private key is a text file created during the Certificate Signing Request (CSR) using a unique random number. You should always keep it in a safe place and never share it with anyone. Even if it’s just a text file, it’s essential for data integrity. You can damage your reputation beyond repair if your […]

What Is SNI (Server Name Indication) and How Does It Work?

Running several HTTPS websites under the same IP address is normal practice today. But that wasn’t always the case. Initially, you needed a dedicated IP address for every domain you wanted to secure. However, the arrival of Server Name Indication (SNI) changed the entire SSL landscape. In this article, we explain what is SNI, how […]

What Is PKI (Public Key Infrastructure) & How Does It Work?

In the modern digital age, secure communication and data transfer are the lifeblood of the entire Internet. But how can users share their sensitive information online without worrying about potential breaches? Introducing Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) – a vital component for maintaining trust and security on the Web. So, what is Public Key Infrastructure, how does […]

How to Secure Multi-Level Subdomains With Wildcard Certificates?

SSL certificates can secure websites of any size and complexity. Since HTTPS became a requirement, more users have learned how to install and manage SSL certs on different platforms. However, the less tech-savvy folks face stern challenges when the multi-level subdomains come into the equation. Unlike regular websites that use a single SSL certificate, you […]