What Is the Difference Between EV and DV SSL Certificates?

By SecYork Technology

In today’s digital world, security is not just a feature—it’s a necessity. One of the most basic yet crucial layers of website security is the SSL certificate, which encrypts data between a user’s browser and your website. But not all SSL certificates are created equal. Among the various types, two often cause confusion: Extended Validation (EV) and Domain Validation (DV) certificates.

So, what sets them apart? And which one is right for your organization?

SSL Basics: Why It Matters

SSL (Secure Sockets Layer), now technically referred to as TLS, provides encryption for online communications. When you see https:// in a website’s URL, it means the site is using an SSL certificate.

But the level of trust and verification varies based on the type of certificate used.

What is a DV (Domain Validation) SSL Certificate?

Domain Validation certificates are the most basic type of SSL.

How It Works:

• The Certificate Authority (CA) only verifies that the applicant owns the domain.

• Verification is typically done via email or DNS record.

• Issued within minutes to hours.

Security Provided:

• Encrypts data between the user and the site.

• Displays a padlock icon and https:// in the address bar.

Limitations:

• No organization details are shown.

• Offers minimal assurance to users.

• Easy for phishing sites to obtain.

Best For:

• Personal blogs

• Test environments

• Non-commercial websites

  
  

What is an EV (Extended Validation) SSL Certificate?

Extended Validation certificates offer the highest level of assurance and trust.

How It Works:

• The CA performs extensive background checks.

• Verifies legal existence, operational status, and ownership of the business.

• Takes a few days to issue.

Security Provided:

• Encrypts data AND verifies business identity.

• Displays a green address bar or business name (depending on the browser).

• Difficult for malicious actors to obtain.

Benefits:

• Boosts user trust and conversions.

• Ideal for e-commerce, banking, legal, and healthcare websites.

• Demonstrates your commitment to strong cybersecurity practices.

Best For:

• Financial institutions

• E-commerce businesses

• Government or regulated entities

  
  

DV vs. EV: A Quick Comparison

Feature	DV SSL	EV SSL
Validation Level	Basic (domain ownership)	Extensive (legal and business checks)
Issuance Time	Minutes to hours	Several days
Display in Browser	Padlock only	Company name + padlock (some browsers)
User Trust	Low	High
Cost	Low	Higher (but justified)

What SecYork Recommends

If your website handles sensitive information, processes payments, or represents a professional or public-facing business, investing in an EV SSL certificate sends a strong signal of trust and credibility.

If you’re running an internal site, blog, or test platform, a DV certificate might be sufficient—but it should never be your final line of defense.

Ready to Secure Your Website?

At SecYork, we help businesses choose and implement the right SSL certificates tailored to their security needs. Whether you’re building a brand or protecting a high-value application, we ensure your users feel safe and your data stays secure.