VeriSign has started offering its clients true 128 bit encryption. With the roll out of this product they are now offering a few different product packages to choose from. The variation among some of them can be subtle, but there are some pretty big differences that I wanted to cover with this article.

For those not familiar, SSLs are also known as Secure Sockets Layers. SSL is a form of encryption that includes the use of two unique keys, one public key and one private key. When a person logs into a secure server the SSL first uses a handshake technique to authorize the server then establishes an encryption method and a unique session key to protect the transaction. The level of encryption needed for these transactions varies depending on the site and the level of security desired. Sites with lower value date that only need minimal protection may choose to go with 40 or 56 bit encryption, but sites that process payments, handle sensitive data, or simply want to offer their customers/clients the maximum security should step up to the true 128 bit encryption.

The primary differences between the levels of service Verisign now offers is the level of actual encryption as well as a few other features offered with the different packages.

The basic package, known simply as VeriSign Secure Site, offers a basic level of encryption from 40 bit up to 256 bit (depending on individual browsers) as well as support for mobile devices and the VeriSign Secure Seal. It also offers a $100,000 warranty and is usable on websites, intranets, extranets and e-commerce sites.  Affordable and flexible, this is a great option for anyone looking for some basic data encryption and security for their company.

The higher quality package is called the VeriSign Secure Site Pro which offers customers all of the features available in the basic package and also includes true 128 bit encryption with a range up to 256 bit for customers with compatible browsers. This package offers you the highest level of encryption available and is backed up with a $250,000 warranty. Also offered is the EV SSL green bar. This turns the address bar on the user’s browser green when they are connected to the secure server. When they see the green bar they can be 100% certain they have a secure connection.

One of the best features of the Secure Site Pro package is that it comes with an SGC-enabled SSL certificate. 128 bit encryption is not universal across every version of every browser or operating system still in use. People using older browsers/computers may not be compatible with this level of encryption. The SGC-enabled SSL certificate enables those with older browsers or older operating systems to connect with a site using 128 bit encryption and take full advantage of the security it offers. With this certificate in place your site will be able to serve 99.9% of all Internet users with full 128 bit encryption.

Both of these products offer security for your company and data. For some, the basic package may work just fine, but for those who are running e-commerce sites, processing payments or simply want the highest possible encryption and protection, the Pro package is something designed just for them.