How to verify the domain ownership OR domain validation.
Domain ownership verification, also known as domain validation (DV), is an essential step in obtaining an SSL/TLS certificate for your website. This verification process ensures that you have control over the domain for which you're requesting the certificate. The exact method of domain validation can vary depending on the Certificate Authority (CA) you choose to issue your certificate. Here are the common methods for domain validation:
Email Verification (Most Common):
The CA sends an email to one of the predefined email addresses associated with the domain. These email addresses are typically based on common domain prefixes such as "admin," "webmaster," "postmaster," or are listed in the WHOIS record for the domain.
The email contains a verification link or a code that you need to click on or enter to confirm your control over the domain. Once confirmed, the CA proceeds with certificate issuance.
File-Based Verification:
You may be required to upload a specific file to your web server with a unique filename and content provided by the CA.
The CA's validation system then attempts to access this file using an HTTP request to verify that you have control over the domain and can modify its web content.
DNS Record Verification:
In this method, you need to add a specific DNS record (usually a TXT or CNAME record) to your domain's DNS configuration.
The CA's validation system checks the DNS records to confirm that you have control over the domain.
It's important to follow the CA's instructions carefully to ensure successful domain validation and certificate issuance. Once domain ownership is verified, the CA will issue the SSL/TLS certificate, which you can then install on your web server to enable secure and encrypted HTTPS connections.