When it comes to securing a website, choosing the right SSL certificate is one of the most important decisions a business can make. SSL certificates not only protect sensitive data exchanged between your website and its visitors but also boost your credibility, SEO rankings, and overall trustworthiness.
Two of the most popular choices on the market today are Premium SSL certificates from DigiCert and budget-friendly SSL certificates like Sectigo PositiveSSL. Both serve the same basic purpose — encrypting website traffic — but they differ significantly in features, validation levels, brand reputation, and pricing.
In this article, we’ll break down the key differences between DigiCert Premium SSL and Sectigo PositiveSSL to help you choose the best option for your website.
1. Security Level and Encryption Strength
Both DigiCert and Sectigo PositiveSSL provide industry-standard 256-bit encryption and 2048-bit RSA keys, ensuring data transmitted through your website remains secure from hackers and eavesdroppers.
- DigiCert Premium SSL:
DigiCert is one of the most trusted Certificate Authorities (CAs) globally. Their premium SSL certificates undergo rigorous validation and come with advanced security features like malware scanning, vulnerability assessments, and priority support. DigiCert certificates are trusted by Fortune 500 companies, banks, and large enterprises. - Sectigo PositiveSSL:
PositiveSSL offers the basic level of encryption needed to secure your site but does not include additional premium security features. It’s more than enough for small websites, personal blogs, or projects that don’t handle sensitive data.
Winner: DigiCert Premium SSL – While both provide strong encryption, DigiCert offers enhanced security layers beyond the basics.
2. Validation Level & Trust Indicators
The validation level of your SSL certificate plays a major role in building trust with your users.
- DigiCert Premium SSL:
Offers Organization Validation (OV) and Extended Validation (EV) options, which display your verified company name in the certificate details. EV certificates also provide the highest level of authentication available, which can increase user trust and conversion rates. - Sectigo PositiveSSL:
Usually comes with Domain Validation (DV) only. This means the certificate validates that you control the domain but doesn’t verify your organization’s identity. DV certificates are quick to issue but offer limited trust indicators.
Winner: DigiCert Premium SSL – OV and EV validation make your website appear more trustworthy, especially for e-commerce, banking, or enterprise sites.
3. Issuance Speed and Installation
- DigiCert Premium SSL:
OV and EV certificates require business verification, so issuance takes longer — usually between 1 to 5 business days. However, DigiCert’s validation process is fast and highly reliable. - Sectigo PositiveSSL:
Domain validation can be completed in minutes. If speed is your top priority, PositiveSSL is a great choice for quick deployment.
Winner: Sectigo PositiveSSL – It’s faster to issue and ideal when you need SSL immediately.
4. Pricing and Budget Considerations
- DigiCert Premium SSL:
Premium certificates cost significantly more — typically ranging from $200 to $800+ per year — but the price reflects the added trust, support, and security features. - Sectigo PositiveSSL:
One of the most affordable SSL options on the market, starting as low as $5 to $15 per year. Perfect for personal websites, small businesses, and budget-conscious projects.
Choose DigiCert Premium SSL if:
- You run an e-commerce site, financial institution, or large business.
- You want maximum trust, enterprise-grade security, and advanced validation.
- Your brand reputation depends on credibility and customer confidence.
Choose Sectigo PositiveSSL if:
- You’re building a personal blog, portfolio, or small business website.
- You want fast, affordable SSL without advanced features.
- Budget and speed are your main priorities.
Conclusion
Both DigiCert Premium SSL and Sectigo PositiveSSL are excellent choices — they just serve different needs.
- DigiCert is the go-to solution for businesses that prioritize trust, reputation, and advanced security.
- Sectigo PositiveSSL is perfect for basic website protection at an unbeatable price.
No matter which you choose, installing an SSL certificate is no longer optional — it’s essential for protecting your visitors and building trust online. Protect your software and strengthen user trust with DigiCert Code Signing. Visit www.sslmalaysia.com.my to get started today.
