{"id":2074,"date":"2024-10-11T12:53:19","date_gmt":"2024-10-11T12:53:19","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.hosted.com\/blog\/?p=2074"},"modified":"2025-08-11T12:54:23","modified_gmt":"2025-08-11T12:54:23","slug":"what-is-a-multi-domain-ssl-certificate","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.hosted.com\/blog\/what-is-a-multi-domain-ssl-certificate\/","title":{"rendered":"What Is A Multi Domain SSL Certificate?"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"bsf_rt_marker\"><\/div>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.hosted.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/multi-domain-ssl-certificate-01-1024x399.png\" alt=\"Secure Multiple Domains or Subdomains with a Single Certificate\" title=\"What Is a Multi Domain SSL Certificate?\" class=\"wp-image-4858\" width=\"1024\" height=\"399\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.hosted.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/multi-domain-ssl-certificate-01-1024x399.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.hosted.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/multi-domain-ssl-certificate-01-300x117.png 300w, https:\/\/www.hosted.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/multi-domain-ssl-certificate-01-768x300.png 768w, https:\/\/www.hosted.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/multi-domain-ssl-certificate-01-1536x599.png 1536w, https:\/\/www.hosted.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/multi-domain-ssl-certificate-01-2048x799.png 2048w, https:\/\/www.hosted.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/multi-domain-ssl-certificate-01-960x374.png 960w, https:\/\/www.hosted.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/multi-domain-ssl-certificate-01-603x235.png 603w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>A multi domain SSL certificate is used to secure and encrypt multiple domain names and servers. In today\u2019s world, the protection of data that is transmitted over the internet has become a top priority for website administrators and owners.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>One of the most important aspects of safeguarding sensitive information has been the implementation of\u202f <a alt=\"Link to Hosted.com\u00ae KBs - Different Types Of SSL Certificates For Enhanced Website Security\" title=\"Hosted.com\u00ae - Different Types Of SSL Certificates For Enhanced Website Security\" href=\"https:\/\/www.hosted.com\/knowledgebase\/ssls\/types-of-ssl-certificates\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">SSL Certificates,<\/a> \u202falso known as TLS Certificates. These TLS Certificates encrypt data exchanged between web servers and browsers used by visitors of the webpage while preventing unauthorized access and eavesdropping.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This begs the question \u2013 what happens when a single SSL certificate needs to secure multiple domains and servers? This is where the Multi Domain SSL\u202fCertificates come into play, they are a versatile solution created to address the security needs of modern websites with more complex domain configurations.\u202f&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In this article, we explore their features, their web security benefits, and why website owners should consider implementing them.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-rank-math-toc-block\" id=\"rank-math-toc\">\n<h4>Table of Contents<\/h4>\n<nav><ul>\n<li class=\"\"><a href=\"#what-is-a-multi-domain-ssl-certificates\">What is a Multi Domain SSL Certificates<\/a><\/li>\n<li class=\"\"><a href=\"#functions-of-ssl-certificates\">Functions of SSL Certificates<\/a><\/li>\n<li class=\"\"><a href=\"#the-need-for-multi-domain-ssl-certificates\">The Need for Multi Domain SSL Certificates<\/a><\/li>\n<li class=\"\"><a href=\"#challenges-facing-traditional-ssl-certificates\">Challenges Facing Traditional SSL Certificates<\/a><\/li>\n<li class=\"\"><a href=\"#features-and-benefits-of-multi-domain-ssl-certificates\">Benefits of Multi Domain SSL Certificates<\/a><\/li>\n<li class=\"\"><a href=\"#types-of-multi-domain-ssl-certificates\">Types Of Multi Domain SSL Certificates<\/a>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"\"><a href=\"#unified-communications-certificates-ucc\">Unified Communications Certificates (UCC)<\/a><\/li>\n<li class=\"\"><a href=\"#subject-alternative-name-san-certificates\">Subject Alternative Name (SAN) Certificates<\/a><\/li>\n<li class=\"\"><a href=\"#wildcard-multi-domain-ssl-certificates\">Wildcard Multi Domain SSL Certificates<\/a><\/li>\n<li class=\"\"><a href=\"#extended-validation-ev-multi-domain-ssl-certificates\">Extended Validation (EV) Multi Domain SSL Certificates<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul><\/li>\n<li class=\"\"><a href=\"#how-to-get-a-multi-domain-ssl-certificate\">How To Get A Multi Domain SSL Certificate<\/a><\/li>\n<li class=\"\"><a href=\"#how-multi-domain-ssl-certificates-work\">How Multi Domain SSL Certificates Work<\/a><\/li>\n<li class=\"\"><a href=\"#key-takeaways\">KEY TAKEAWAYS<\/a><\/li>\n<li class=\"\"><a href=\"#fa-qs\">FAQs<\/a><\/li>\n<li class=\"\"><a href=\"#other-blogs-of-interest\">Other Blogs of Interest:<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"what-is-a-multi-domain-ssl-certificates\">What is a Multi Domain SSL Certificates<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>An <a alt=\"Link to Hosted.com\u00ae KBs - Glossary Of Terms - SSL Certificates\" title=\"Hosted.com\u00ae - Glossary Of Terms - SSL Certificates\" href=\"https:\/\/www.hosted.com\/knowledgebase\/ssls\/glossary-terms-ssl-certificates\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">SSL Certificate<\/a> is a digital protocol that creates a secure connection between a web server and a browser using 256-bit encryption. It makes it harder for hackers to intercept and steal data by authenticating websites and encrypting data transferred between a client\u2019s device and the website\u2019s server.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>SSL certificates contribute to cyber threat prevention, online transaction privacy, and information security, by encrypting sensitive data. This includes payment details, login credentials, and other personal information of the user.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A multi-domain certificate also known as a SAN Certificate (Subject Alternative Name), or as a UCC (Unified Communications Certificate), is explained in more detail below.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"functions-of-ssl-certificates\">Functions of SSL Certificates<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>SSL Certificates serve several functions in the protection and security of a website while ensuring user trust. These include:\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Protecting sensitive information by encrypting data transferred between a user\u2019s browser and the web server.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Websites that have SSL certificates the \u201chttps:\/\/\u201d protocol in the URL (not IP addresses) and show a padlock icon to indicate a secure connection.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>SSL ensures data integrity by guarding against unauthorized changes to data while it is being transmitted.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>By verifying websites&#8217; identities, they help prevent phishing scams by making it more difficult for imposters to mimic legitimate sites.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The certificates keep users from seeing warnings about insecure websites, offering a positive user experience and increasing engagement.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Websites with SSL certification may rank higher in search engine results, which increases their visibility.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>SSL Certificates are essential for protecting payment information and securing online transactions on ecommerce websites.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.hosted.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/multi-domain-ssl-certificate-02-1024x229.png\" alt=\"Multi Domain SSLs Provide Enhanced Flexibility\" title=\"Multi Domain SSL Certificates can provide enhanced security flexibility\" class=\"wp-image-4860\" width=\"1024\" height=\"229\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.hosted.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/multi-domain-ssl-certificate-02-1024x229.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.hosted.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/multi-domain-ssl-certificate-02-300x67.png 300w, https:\/\/www.hosted.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/multi-domain-ssl-certificate-02-768x171.png 768w, https:\/\/www.hosted.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/multi-domain-ssl-certificate-02-1536x343.png 1536w, https:\/\/www.hosted.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/multi-domain-ssl-certificate-02-2048x457.png 2048w, https:\/\/www.hosted.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/multi-domain-ssl-certificate-02-960x214.png 960w, https:\/\/www.hosted.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/multi-domain-ssl-certificate-02-603x135.png 603w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"the-need-for-multi-domain-ssl-certificates\">The Need for Multi Domain SSL Certificates<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Many businesses today operate multiple websites and subdomains, or alternative domain names. The traditional approach of securing each domain with a single SSL Certificate may not be practical and cost-efficient.\u202f&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Multi Domain SSL Certificates address this issue by presenting a convenient solution by using a single certificate. This provides enhanced flexibility and efficiency in managing website security.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"challenges-facing-traditional-ssl-certificates\">Challenges Facing Traditional SSL Certificates<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Difficult Process<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Obtaining and maintaining single SSL certificates for every domain or subdomain can be a labor-and time-intensive task.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential Expense<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Purchasing single domain SSL certificates can get expensive, especially for businesses that maintain many online assets.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Maintenance Overhead<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When there are several digital certificates, there is an increase in the complexity of ongoing tasks such as certificate renewal and management, which results in an administrative burden.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Inconsistency in Security Configurations<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A unified security posture may be difficult to maintain if different SSL certificates are managed for every domain, which could lead to inconsistent security configurations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Administrative Burden<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>IT teams\u2019 workload is increased by having to track and handle numerous certificates across multiple domains, which may influence operational effectiveness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Problems with Scalability<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Keeping track of individual SSL certificates becomes more difficult as the number of domains or subdomains increases.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"features-and-benefits-of-multi-domain-ssl-certificates\">Benefits of Multi Domain SSL Certificates<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The benefits of using a single certificate include reduced costs, meeting a variety of security requirements, and avoiding the difficulties of managing traditional SSL certificates, by unifying several domains, subdomains, and servers.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Consolidated Management<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Businesses can consolidate their security better by using multi domain SSL certificates. Management tasks like issuance, renewal, and installation, are made more efficient by using a single certificate that protects up to a hundred* domains or subdomains. This streamlined approach can improve operational efficiency and resources.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>* Figure at time of writing blog post<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Financial Savings<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Purchasing multi-domain SSL certificates is significantly more affordable than obtaining separate certificates for every domain or server.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>IT Efficiency<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>IT teams can become streamlined and save time thanks to multi domain SSL Certificate management efficiency. Administrators and staff can allocate resources more effectively and concentrate on other crucial duties when they have fewer certificates to handle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Versatility<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Multi domain SSL certificates are appropriate for businesses of all sizes and sectors, as they cover a wide range of security requirements. Whether managing a portfolio of ecommerce websites, intranet portals, or a combination of public-facing and internal web applications. The certificates provide the flexibility to secure different domain configurations under one umbrella.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Adaptability<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The flexibility of multi domain SSL certificates allows organizations to adapt their security strategies to meet evolving business requirements. With the ability to secure multiple domains and servers under one certificate, they can easily scale their security solutions as their web presence or operation grows.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.hosted.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/multi-domain-ssl-certificate-03-1024x229.png\" alt=\"Reduce Costs and Admin With a Multi Domain SSL\" title=\"Reduce costs and admin with a Multi Domain SSL Certificate\" class=\"wp-image-4862\" width=\"1024\" height=\"229\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.hosted.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/multi-domain-ssl-certificate-03-1024x229.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.hosted.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/multi-domain-ssl-certificate-03-300x67.png 300w, https:\/\/www.hosted.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/multi-domain-ssl-certificate-03-768x171.png 768w, https:\/\/www.hosted.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/multi-domain-ssl-certificate-03-1536x343.png 1536w, https:\/\/www.hosted.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/multi-domain-ssl-certificate-03-2048x457.png 2048w, https:\/\/www.hosted.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/multi-domain-ssl-certificate-03-960x214.png 960w, https:\/\/www.hosted.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/multi-domain-ssl-certificate-03-603x135.png 603w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"types-of-multi-domain-ssl-certificates\">Types Of Multi Domain SSL Certificates<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Multi Domain SSL Certificates come in <a alt=\"Link to Hosted.com\u00ae KBs - Different Types Of SSL Certificates For Enhanced Website Security\" title=\"Hosted.com\u00ae - Different Types Of SSL Certificates For Enhanced Website Security\" href=\"https:\/\/www.hosted.com\/knowledgebase\/ssls\/types-of-ssl-certificates\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">different forms<\/a>, for various purposes. Here are some common types and their functions:\u202f\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"unified-communications-certificates-ucc\">Unified Communications Certificates (UCC)<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>UCC SSL certificates are specifically created for use with Microsoft Exchange Server and Microsoft Office Communications Server environments. These allow you to secure multiple domain names, subdomains, and hostnames associated with Exchange Server or Office Communications Server under a single certificate, supporting up to 100 domain names or subdomains.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Subject Alternative Name (SAN) Certificates&nbsp;<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>SAN certificates are also referred to as Unified SSL certificates and allow you to secure multiple domain names and servers under one certificate. They are versatile and can be used for a range of applications, including securing e-commerce websites, corporate intranets, and public-facing web applications.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Wildcard Multi Domain SSL Certificates\u00a0<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>These types of SSL Certificates combine the functionality of multi domain SSL Certificates with wildcard SSL certificates. They allow you to secure multiple domain names and their subdomains using one certificate, securing them with a wildcard character (*).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Extended Validation (EV) Multi Domain SSL Certificates&nbsp;<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>EV SSL Certificates offer the highest standard of encryption strength, validation, and trust, and they require <a alt=\"Link to Hosted.com\u00ae KBs - What Documentation Is Required For An EV SSL Certificate\" title=\"Hosted.com\u00ae - What Documentation Is Required For An EV SSL Certificate\" href=\"https:\/\/www.hosted.com\/knowledgebase\/ssls\/ev-ssl-certificate-documentation\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">the most verification<\/a>. These certificates allow an organization to display its name prominently in the browser\u2019s address bar, to indicate a high validation level, security, and trustworthiness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.hosted.com\/security\/domain-validated-ssl-certificates\" alt=\"Link to Hosted.com\u00ae - DV Wildcard SSL Certificates\" title=\"Hosted.com\u00ae - DV SSL Certificates &#038; Wildcards\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.hosted.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/multi-domain-ssl-certificate-04-1024x229.png\" alt=\"Buy a Wildcard Multi Domain SSL Now\" title=\"Buy a Wildcard Multi Domain SSL Certificate Now\" class=\"wp-image-4863\" width=\"1024\" height=\"229\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.hosted.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/multi-domain-ssl-certificate-04-1024x229.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.hosted.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/multi-domain-ssl-certificate-04-300x67.png 300w, https:\/\/www.hosted.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/multi-domain-ssl-certificate-04-768x171.png 768w, https:\/\/www.hosted.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/multi-domain-ssl-certificate-04-1536x343.png 1536w, https:\/\/www.hosted.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/multi-domain-ssl-certificate-04-2048x457.png 2048w, https:\/\/www.hosted.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/multi-domain-ssl-certificate-04-960x214.png 960w, https:\/\/www.hosted.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/multi-domain-ssl-certificate-04-603x135.png 603w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"how-to-get-a-multi-domain-ssl-certificate\">How To Get A Multi Domain SSL Certificate<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Obtaining a Multi Domain SSL Certificate is fairly similar to how one would get a traditional SSL Certificate. However, here are more considerations, here is a general overview of the process involved:&nbsp;<br><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"1\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Choose a reputable Certificate Authority (CA)<\/strong> &#8211; Research and select a <a href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Certificate_authority\" alt=\"Link to Wikipedia - Certificate Authority\" title=\"Wikipedia - Certificate Authority\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">CA<\/a> with a good reputation that offers Multi Domain SSL Certificates.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"2\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Select a Certificate Type <\/strong>&#8211; Select the type of Multi Domain SSL Certificates you need based on your requirements.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Provide Domain Information<\/strong> &#8211; Prepare a list of the main domain names and subdomains you wish to secure, using your certificate. Ensure that you have control over each of the domain names and can verify ownership during the issuance process, this does not apply to fully qualified domain names.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Generate a Certificate Signing Request (CSR)<\/strong> &#8211; Create a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.hosted.com\/knowledgebase\/ssls\/certificate-signing-request\/\" alt=\"Link to Hosted.com\u00ae KBs - What Is The Certificate Signing Request - CSR - Process\" title=\"Hosted.com\u00ae - What Is The Certificate Signing Request - CSR - Process\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">CSR<\/a> for your primary domain name and include the additional domain names and SANs in the CSR, to specify which domains should be covered.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Submit CSR and Domain Verification<\/strong> &#8211; Submit the CSR to the CA accompanied by all documentation required for verification. The CA will verify your ownership of the domain names in the CSR before issuing the certificate.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Issuance and Installation<\/strong> &#8211; After verification, the CA will issue the certificate. Download the files with the site seal and install them on your web server by following the CA\u2019s instructions or using your hosting provider\u2019s management tools.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Configure Web Server <\/strong>&#8211; Configure your web server to use the new SSL for all domains and subdomains listed by updating your server\u2019s <a alt=\"Link to Wikipedia - Public Key Certificate - TLS\/SSL\" title=\"Wikipedia - Public Key Certificate - TLS\/SSL\" href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Public_key_certificate\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">SSL\/TLS<\/a> settings. If you need help, please contact <a href=\"https:\/\/www.hosted.com\/submitTicket\" alt=\"Link to Hosted.com\u00ae Website - Open a Ticket\" title=\"Hosted.com\u00ae - Open a Ticket\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Hosted.com\u00ae&#8217;s Support Team<\/a>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Test SSL Installation<\/strong> \u2013 Test the certificate to ensure it is configured correctly and provides browser support and a secure connection for all specified domains.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Renewal and Maintenance <\/strong>\u2013 Check the expiration date of your certificate and be sure to renew it before it expires. You can set up reminders or automatic renewal services.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"how-multi-domain-ssl-certificates-work\">How Multi Domain SSL Certificates Work<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>While most commonly called Multi Domain SSL Certificates, they are also known as Unified Communications Certificates (UCC) or Subject Alternative Name (SAN) certificates.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Subject Alternative Names (SANs)<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Multi domain SSL Certificates are able to secure multiple domain names (including primary and subdomains) thanks to Subject Alternative Names (SANs), which are additional domain names that are included within the certificate\u2019s SAN field.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When generating a UCC\/SAN certificate, users need to specify the list of domain names or SANs that they need to secure. These can include domains with different Top-Level Domains (TLDs), variations of the primary domain name, and subdomains.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Encryption and Security<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Much like traditional SSL Certificates, Multi Domain SSL Certificates use encryption algorithms to secure communication between the web server and the user\u2019s browser. When a user visits any of the domains listed in the certificate, their browser will verify the authenticity of the certificate and establish a secure connection to the web server.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"key-takeaways\">KEY TAKEAWAYS<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>SSL Certificates play a critical role in safeguarding sensitive information transmitted over the internet by encrypting data exchanged between web servers and browsers.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Managing individual SSL certificates for different domain names can be labor-intensive and expensive, leading to administrative burdens and scalability issues.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Multi Domain SSL Certificates provide a solution for securing multiple domains or subdomains under a single certificate.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Obtaining a Multi Domain SSL Certificate involves selecting a Certificate Authority, providing domain information,\u00a0<a alt=\"Link to Hosted.com\u00ae KBs - What Is The Certificate Signing Request - CSR - Process\" title=\"Hosted.com\u00ae - What Is The Certificate Signing Request - CSR - Process\" href=\"https:\/\/www.hosted.com\/knowledgebase\/ssls\/certificate-signing-request\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">generating a Certificate Signing Request<\/a> (CSR), and submitting it to the CA for verification.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"fa-qs\">FAQs<\/h4>\n\n\n<div id=\"rank-math-faq\" class=\"rank-math-block\">\n<div class=\"rank-math-list \">\n<div id=\"faq-question-1713786554572\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h6 class=\"rank-math-question \">What is the difference between a Multi Domain SSL Certificate and a Wildcard SSL Certificate?<\/h6>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>While both types of certificates can secure multiple subdomains, however, a Multi Domain SSL Certificate allows you to cover individual domain names, as well as their subdomains under a single certificate. Meanwhile, a Wildcard SSL Certificate secures a primary domain and all its subdomains with a single certificate using a wildcard character (*).\u00a0<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1713786584573\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h6 class=\"rank-math-question \">How many domains can be secured with a Multi Domain SSL Certificate?<\/h6>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>The number of domains that can be secured depends on the specific certificate type and the Certificate Authority providing it. Some certificates might support a limited number of domains, while others may offer additional domain slots. Currently, it appears that the limit is a hundred.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1713786601683\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h6 class=\"rank-math-question \">Can I add or remove domains from a Multi Domain SSL Certificate after it has been issued?<\/h6>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>This is dependent on the policies of the Certificate Authority and the type of certificate you have obtained. Some CAs may allow you to add or remove domains during the validity period of the certificate, while others will require you to purchase a new certificate with the updated domain list.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1713786616579\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h6 class=\"rank-math-question \">Do all web servers support Multi Domain SSL Certificates?<\/h6>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Most current web servers, such as Apache, Nginx, and Microsoft IIS, support Multi Domain SSL Certificates. Despite this, it is important to ensure that your server and SSL\/TLS configuration are compatible with Multi Domain SSL Certificates before purchasing and installing one.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1713786634727\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h6 class=\"rank-math-question \">Can I use a Multi Domain SSL Certificate for email encryption and secure communication?<\/h6>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>While Multi Domain SSL Certificates are primarily designed for securing web communication, they can also be used for email encryption and secure communication protocols such as SMTP, IMAP, and POP3, depending on your email server software.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1713786650790\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h6 class=\"rank-math-question \">Do Multi Domain SSL Certificates provide the same level of security as single-domain certificates?<\/h6>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Yes, Multi Domain SSL Certificates provide the same level of encryption and security as single-domain certificates do.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"other-blogs-of-interest\">Other Blogs of Interest:<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>&#8211; <a href=\"https:\/\/www.hosted.com\/blog\/ssl-certificate-errors-how-to-fix-them\/\" alt=\"Link to Hosted.com\u00ae Blogs - A Simple Explanation of SSL Certificate Errors and How to Fix Them\" title=\"Hosted.com\u00ae - A Simple Explanation of SSL Certificate Errors and How to Fix Them\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">A Simple Explanation Of SSL Certificate Errors &amp; How To Fix Them<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>&#8211; <a href=\"https:\/\/www.hosted.com\/blog\/how-to-renew-ssl-certificates\/\" alt=\"Link to Hosted.com\u00ae Blogs - How To Renew SSL Certificates For A Website\" title=\"Hosted.com\u00ae - How To Renew SSL Certificates For A Website\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">How To Renew SSL Certificates For A Website<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>&#8211; <a href=\"https:\/\/www.hosted.com\/blog\/web-hosting-security-top-11-best-practices\/\" alt=\"Link to Hosted.com\u00ae Blogs - Web Hosting Security - Top 11 Best Practices\" title=\"Hosted.com\u00ae - Web Hosting Security - Top 11 Best Practices\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Web Hosting Security \u2013 Top 11 Best Practices<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>&#8211; <a href=\"https:\/\/www.hosted.com\/blog\/7-factors-when-choosing-web-hosting-services\/\" alt=\"Link to Hosted.com\u00ae Blogs - 7 Factors for Choosing Web Hosting Services for your Small Business\" title=\"Hosted.com\u00ae - 7 Factors for Choosing Web Hosting Services for your Small Business\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">7 Factors for Choosing Web Hosting Services for your Small Business<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>&#8211; <a href=\"https:\/\/www.hosted.com\/blog\/get-security-based-web-hosting\/\" alt=\"Link to Hosted.com\u00ae Blogs - Choose a Security Focused Hosting Plan\" title=\"Hosted.com\u00ae - Choose a Security Focused Hosting Plan\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Choose A Security Focused Hosting Plan<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p> A multi domain SSL certificate is used to secure and encrypt multiple domain names and servers. In today\u2019s world, the protection of data that is transmitted over the internet has become a top priority for website administrators and owners. One of the most important aspects of safeguarding sensitive information has been the implementation of\u202f SSL Certificates, \u202falso known as TLS Certificates. These TLS Certificates encrypt data exchanged between web servers and browsers used by visitors of&#8230; <a alt='What Is A Multi Domain SSL Certificate?' title='What Is A Multi Domain SSL Certificate?' href='https:\/\/www.hosted.com\/blog\/what-is-a-multi-domain-ssl-certificate\/' class='read-more'>Read More<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":8,"featured_media":4861,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_monsterinsights_skip_tracking":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_active":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_note":"","_monsterinsights_sitenote_category":0,"footnotes":""},"categories":[1139,1011],"tags":[1154],"class_list":["post-2074","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-ssl-certificates","category-website-security","tag-multi-domain-ssl-certificates"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.hosted.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2074","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.hosted.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.hosted.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.hosted.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/8"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.hosted.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=2074"}],"version-history":[{"count":20,"href":"https:\/\/www.hosted.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2074\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":12894,"href":"https:\/\/www.hosted.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2074\/revisions\/12894"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.hosted.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/4861"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.hosted.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=2074"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.hosted.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=2074"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.hosted.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=2074"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}