• What is SSL?
• What is QuickSSL?
• Why are QuickSSL web server certificates so inexpensive?
• What web browser programs are compatible with QuickSSL?
• How do I create a certificate-signing request?
• How do I install my QuickSSL certificate?

• What is the process for installing a Web certificate?
• What information must be submitted to GeoTrust as part of the verification process?
• What should I do if my company is not the registered owner of the domain?
• How long does it take to get a Web server certificate?
  
• How will I know if my application for a GeoTrust Web server certificate has been successful?
• What can I do if my application is not successful?

What is SSL?

The SSL (secure socket layer) protocol is the web standard for encrypting communications between users and web sites. Data sent via an SSL connection is protected by encryption, a mechanism that prevents eavesdropping and tampering with any transmitted data. SSL provides businesses and consumers with the confidence that private data sent to a web site, such as credit card numbers, are kept confidential. Web server certificates are required to initialize an SSL session.

What is QuickSSL?

QuickSSL is a web server certificate that allows consumers and web sites to conduct safe e-commerce with encrypted SSL connections. QuickSSL web server certificates are compatible with 98% of all browsers.

Why are QuickSSL web server certificates so inexpensive?

Historically, most SSL certificates cost $350 or more, but GeoTrust has developed fully automated systems to verify that a certificate purchaser has appropriate administrative rights to a web server's domain. This greatly lowers our costs for issuing QuickSSL certificates, and we pass those savings on to you. With QuickSSL, you can assure your customers that their transactions and information are secure on the Internet without having to pay an unreasonable price.

What web browser programs are compatible with QuickSSL?

QuickSSL is compatible with Microsoft Internet Explorer® 5.01 and higher and Netscape/AOL web browsers version 4.51 and higher, comprising an estimated 98% or more of all web browsers in use today. All other commonly used browsers may connect securely with web servers using QuickSSL certificates. However, some older browsers may display a dialogue box indicating that the certificate is not trusted. This means that the certificated is not located in the browser certificate store and, in most cases, the user will be prompted to install it with a few clicks of their mouse.

How do I create a certificate-signing request?

See certificate-signing request generation (CSR) instructions.

How do I install my QuickSSL certificate?

See QuickSSL installation instructions.

What is the process for installing a Web certificate?

1. Submit your CSR & Contact Information and Agree to the Subscriber Agreement
2. Submit your Organization Verification Information: Fax your Proof of Organization information to 1-770-360-9571. Include your domain name and order ID number on the cover letter. If any of the above items do not match or are not submitted, the processing of your certificate request will be delayed.
3. Receive certificate via e-mail.
4. Install certificate on Server

What Information must be submitted to Geotrust as part of Verification Process?

Proof of Organization (any of the following will apply):

• Dun and Bradstreet DUNS number
• Articles of Incorporation or Business License
• Doing Business As (DBA) registration or Partnership documentation
• Sole Proprietorship documentation

In order to ensure a smooth verification process, ensure that the following items are consistent with the order to have your server certificate order processed

• The Registrant listed in the WHOIS records for the domain name in question
• The Organization appearing in your "Proof of Organization" documents or DUNS number
• The Organization entered into the CSR (Certificate Signing Request)

Please Note: If you represent a Government Department, Non-Government Organization, or a University, then you should:

• E-mail us at support@geotrust.com
• or call us at: 1-888-348-8043
• Note: All documents must be provided in English or with an English translation

What should I do if my company is not the registered owner of the domain?

If your company is not the registered owner of the domain (as verified through a WHOIS lookup), you must get the ownership information changed prior to submitting a certificate application. The information can usually be changed by yourself, using the username and password provided by your Reseller.

How long does it take to get a Web Server Certificate?

From the time you submit your application, the processing time for a Web Server Certificate takes 2 to 3 business days.

How will I know if my application for a Geotrust Web Server Certificate has been successful (or not)?

You will be notified when the verification process is completed. If your application has been accepted, you will receive your certificate via an e-mail sent to the administrative and technical contacts

What can I do if my application is not successful?

If your Web Server Certificate application is rejected, you can work with the Support Team to determine the best way to submit a new application. The main reasons that can lead an application to fail are:

• The domain name in the CSR is not registered to the authorizing business/organization.
• CSR is incorrectly formatted