A Unified Communication Certificate (UCC), also known as a Multi-Domain SSL or SAN certificate, offers a streamlined and cost-effective solution. Originally designed for Microsoft Exchange and Office Communication servers, UCC SSL certificates allow you to secure up to 250 domains with a single certificate. 

This article explores the benefits and workings of UCC SSL certificates. Learn why they are essential for any organization handling multiple websites.

What is a UCC SSL Certificate?

A Unified Communications Certificate (UCC) is a type of SSL/TLS certificate securing multiple domains and subdomains with just one certificate. This certificate is useful for organizations with various sites present on varied servers. It simplifies the process of managing and renewing SSL certificates.

UCC SSL certificates use SAN (Subject Alternative Name) extension to specify the multiple domain names protected by the certificate. The Certificate Authority (CA) verifies the applicant’s ownership of the domains and issues a single certificate that can be installed on the web server to protect the specified FQDNs (Fully Qualified Domain Names).

UCC SSL certificates are compatible with all major web servers and browsers. They provide unbreakable 256-bit encryption and include features like generous warranties, site seals, and unlimited server licenses.

UCC SSL can Secure up to 250 Domains

Of course, the upper cap on the count of domains that a UCC SSL certificate can secure solely depends on the Certificate Authority. Since multiple domains are involved in this certificate, the 1st domain comprises the primary/root domain, and the remaining domains are termed as SANs (Subject Alternative Names).

The “Issued To” field in the certificate will display the primary domain name, and the same stands true for the name displayed on the site seal. All the other domains and subdomains protected and encrypted by UCC SSL will be listed in the SAN field in the certificate.

Usually, UCCs come with free 2-4 SANs, but they permit the addition of more SANs.

You can add domains and list them as SANs, but the common name cannot be modified or altered. Also, modifications to the current SANs will require the re-issuance of the certificate. That remains stagnant.

In case of privacy issues, you don’t wish to expose all the attached sites on the same certificate, and you can opt for another type of SSL certificate.

Available Validations for UCC SSL:

A UCC (Multi-domain SSL) certificate is available in three validations: Domain Validation (DV), Organization Validation (OV), or Extended Validation (EV).

Domain Validation (DV) SSL

The verification process of the UCC (Domain Validation) SSL certificate is concise because it’s paperless. The CA cross-checks the domain name stated in the CSR with the WHOIS record, and once the same is confirmed, they issue the certificate.The task takes only a few minutes, and once the certificate is installed on your website, it immediately secures your site’s domains and subdomains.

Example:
Starting at $15.00/yr, PositiveSSL DV Multi-Domain Certificate can be the best option for you to secure various personal websites by combining multiple domains into a single certificate.

Organization Validation (OV) SSL

The verification process of the UCC (Organization Validation) SSL certificate is more detailed since the CA verifies the registration and legitimacy of the company’s documents before issuing the certificate. This process takes a few days, and hence issuance time of the UCC OV SSL certificate is 1-3 business days. Various SSL certificate providers offer low-cost or cheap UCC SSL certificates.

Example:
You can avail Comodo UCC SSL Certificate for just $90.00/yr. Also, you can add multiple domains based on your requirement by paying the desired amount and get security for all of your other websites too. These certificates are preferred for Microsoft Exchange Servers and Microsoft Office Communication servers.

Extended Validation (EV) SSL

The UCC (Extended Validation) SSL certificate stands at the pinnacle of trust and security. It involves a comprehensive and meticulous validation process by the Certificate Authority (CA).During the EV validation, the CA not only verifies the ownership and control of the listed domains but also rigorously examines the legal existence and identity of the applying organization.This stringent validation process ensures that websites secured with UCC EV SSL certificates exhibit the highest level of trust for their users.

Example:
GeoTrust TBID EV Multi-Domain SSL Certificate available at $350.00/yr., can give you the highest-level of security by securing multiple domains.

How Does Standard UCC SSL Certificate Work for Multiple Domains?

One UCC SSL certificate can secure various company websites with encryption and prevent intruders from fulfilling their malicious motives.

It can be used to secure varied domains and subdomains like:

Features of UCC SSL

The strong features of the UCC SSL certificate, which prompt many companies to opt for it are:

• UCC SSL certificates secure up to 250 www and non-www domains approximately with one certificate.
• They also secure the web with SHA-2 256-bit encryption and 2048-bit RSA signature keys.
• It carries more than a 99% compatibility rate with major browsers and mobiles.
• They come with up to $250,000 warranties to cover unwanted situations.
• These certificates provide free re-issuances.
• An excellent customer support team is available 24/7 to fix your issues.
• They come with a 30-day money-back guarantee in case of any dissatisfaction.
• They are available in two validations, i.e., OV & DV.
• They secure all MS communications and exchange servers and MS services.
• They come with a Site Seal to enhance user trust.

How to Get a UCC Certificate?

The procedure is similar to acquiring an SSL certificate. 

1. Firstly, you need to contact an SSL provider and select the UCC SSL certificate.
2. After that, generate a CSR (certificate signing request) on the server, and the primary domain name must be listed at FQDN (fully qualified domain name). All the remaining domains will be listed as SANs. 
3. Then complete the certificate configuration process and domain validation process.
4. After completing the verification process on all the listed domains, the Certificate Authority will issue this SAN certificate. 
5. Install this certificate on various servers as well as websites.

Advantages of UCC SSL Certificate

• UCC SSL simplifies certificate management by securing multiple sites with a single certificate.
• UCC SSL provides the dual advantage of being cost-friendly and hassle-free.
• UCC SSL provides easy renewal as it ensures all listed domains and subdomains share a single expiration date.
• Certificate providers send reminders to prevent security issues caused by expired certificates.

Disadvantages of UCC SSL Certificate

• UCC SSL certificates typically do not support wildcard subdomains, which can be a limitation for organizations with complex subdomain structures.
• UCC SSL certificates may be more expensive than standard single-domain certificates, which can be a drawback for budget-conscious businesses.
• While UCC SSL certificates are generally well supported by major browsers, there may still be some compatibility issues with certain older or less common browsers, potentially affecting user experience.

Final Words:

A UCC SSL certificate is a cost-effective way to streamline security management. Securing up to 250 domains with a single certificate simplifies administration, reduces costs, and ensures robust encryption. Small businesses with multiple websites or large enterprises managing extensive online assets can benefit from a Unified Communication Certificate (UCC).

At CheapSSLShop, we offer a range of affordable UCC SSL certificates from reputed CAs. With 24/7 expert support and a 30-day money-back guarantee, you can trust us to protect your online reputation. Visit CheapSSLShop today to ensure your digital infrastructure remains secure, trusted, and compliant with the latest industry standards.