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Secure Server FAQs
Q1. What is SSL and "Netscape" compatible
encryption?
As an add-on feature, Blue Reef offers SSL (secure sockets layer), frequently
referred to as "Netscape" compatible encryption. This allows a browser
to communicate with your Virtual Server in a secure SSL encrypted session.
It is often used to securely transfer sensitive information such as credit
card numbers and passwords.
Q2.
What is the cost for adding SSL?
There is a one time $50 setup fee for installing SSL on a Virtual Server.
This setup charge is different from the setup required for ordering a
new Virtual Server. There is no monthly fee for SSL. Customers who wish
to use SSL on their Servers should consider purchasing a digital certificate
from either VeriSign or Thawte (see questions 6.6-6.11).
Q3.
Can I order SSL for my Server after it has been setup?
Yes. SSL can be added at any time to a Virtual or Dedicated Server. To
do this simply use the "Add SSL" wizard of our Order
Processing System.
Q4. How long does it
take to setup SSL?
SSL can generally be added to a Virtual Server the same day it is ordered.
Initially the Blue Reef digital certificate will be used as the default
certificate for the secure server. When you access the secure server,
the URL you will use will be:
https://your-login-name.securetransfers.com/
Where you would replace "your-login-name" with your virtual server
login name. If you decide to order your own digital certificate, then
you would then be able to access your secure server (after the certificate
has been installed) using the URL:
https://www.your-domain.name/
If you do not mind accessing your secure server using the "securetransfers.com"
URL, then it is not necessary to purchase your own digital certificate.
Q5.
How do I access SSL on my Virtual Server?
In order to establish an encrypted web session on your Virtual Server
you simply need to change the prefix of any URL to read "https://" instead
of "http://". When you establish a secure session with your web site,
your web browser will indicate this by showing a blue key (Netscape 3)
or a closed lock (Communicator 4+, MSIE) in the bottom of your browser.
Q6. What does a digital
certificate do?
The Internet uses a digital certificate to prove a web site owner's authenticity.
The digital certificate establishes a legal relationship between a legitimate
company and its web site. For example, if you go to Novell's web page
and check the signature on their digital certificate it cryptographically
indicates that the site is authorized by Novell (or by the company whose
signature is actually on the digital certificate). Full information about
digital certificates and how to apply for a digital certificate can be
obtained by accessing the Server
Add-ons section of this web site.
Q7. What digital certificates are supported by
the Blue Reef Virtual Server?
Any signed digital certificate can be supported by the Blue Reef Virtual
Server software. You should be aware that most browsers by default only
support certificates signed by a limited number of agencies, namely Thawte,
VeriSign and others. Typically older browsers, v2.x or previous, only
support certificates signed by VeriSign, AT&T, and a few others. A very
small percentage of users has such an out-dated browser.
Newer browsers allow for greater flexibility in recognizing signing agencies
such as allowing a client to add any signing agency as a recognized vendor
of digital certificates.
Q8.
What does a digital certificate cost?
A Thawte certificate can be obtained for $125, with renewal cost of $100
per year. A VeriSign certificate for a company located in the United States
can be set up for $349, with a $249 per year renewal ($449 and $349 respectively
for International companies). For information on ordering a digital certificate,
please refer to our Handbook.
Q9. Can multiple digital
certificates be installed on a Virtual Server?
No, only one digital certificate can be installed on a Virtual Server.
Therefore, if you are intending to obtain a digital certificate for a
site that is a Virtual Host of a Virtual Server, you would only be able
to install it if no other certificates had been installed on that Virtual
Server.
Q10. How do I order
a digital certificate?
A detailed explanation about ordering a digital certificate can be
found on our web
site or in the Blue Reef Virtual Server Handbook.
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