Let’s Encrypt Issues First IP Address Certificate

Secured network connectivity is important for enterprises and government organizations. The constant threat of cyberattacks could easily disrupt transactions, affecting people in many ways. Securing connectivity, especially in privacy-focused transactions, should be a priority for network engineers and administrators. No one wants to be a sitting duck to cyberattacks, because a single successful attack could cost millions and even lives.

This is the reason why Let’s Encrypt recently announced its first IP Address Certificate. While uncommon, it’s an important certificate allowing secure transactions for enterprises of any size. Securing an IP Address Certificate is a unique security option, but it has its advantages, especially in encryption.

Knowing More About IP Address Certificates

An IP Address Certificate is basically a secured connection specific to a public IP address. Through this certificate, the owner or owners of the IP address ensure that the IP address actually connects to the intended target. A certificate also ensures that the public IP address connection is encrypted and protected from unauthorized use.

For context, an SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) certificate is usually issued to a domain name. Through this certificate, domain names ensure their users that their connection is actually secure. Users will notice this when the domain comes with https:// instead of http://. Browsers will also warn users if the domain is not secure.

Each domain name is assigned to an IP address. Users are accustomed to using domain names to access their favorite websites. Using an IP address to access websites is also possible, but a familiar name is easier. IP addresses can also change, especially when a website changes web servers. Remembering an IP address to access a site is futile.

Issuing an SSL to an IP address is often reserved for security connectivity. It is possible to use an SSL for an IP address for regular connectivity, but it’s incredibly inconvenient compared to a domain name.

Practical Use of IP Address Certificates

There are situations where an IP Address Certificate is a must. Among them is to ensure the client’s connection is secured to the server’s IP address. DoH (DNS over HTTPS) often uses IP Address Certificates to protect clients through an encrypted connection. Small enterprises also use this type of certificate to protect their connection to their security devices, servers, and other network-controlled devices. An IP Address Certificate is also a feasible solution for a secure connection between cloud servers.

Obtaining an IP Address Certificate will require proof of ownership and technical capability in implementing the security feature. Let’s Encrypt currently offers a short-term, six-day IP Address Certificate. For longer IP address certification, companies offering SSL certificates can set up an annual subscription. Subscription rates are often per IP address, and additional fees for related services and the type of certification.

An IP Address Certificate helps organizations, government entities, and businesses of any size upgrade their online connectivity. Securing a server connection through an IP Address Certificate ensures a stable connection and encryption. It will require technical expertise and capability, but its advantages outweigh the required setup.