The consensus is that the specific *type* of SSL certificate (DV, OV, EV) does not directly impact email authentication protocols or deliverability algorithms used by mailbox providers. Mailbox providers prioritize factors like email authentication (SPF, DKIM, DMARC), user engagement, and sender reputation. However, *having* a valid SSL certificate (enabling HTTPS) on all domains associated with your email program, including landing pages, tracking links, and image hosting, is crucial for maintaining a positive reputation and ensuring a secure user experience. The lack of SSL, or presence of mixed content, can trigger browser warnings, erode user trust, and negatively impact engagement, all of which indirectly harm deliverability. Proper certificate validation and avoiding mixed content are vital for ensuring security. TLS encrypts email in transit, protecting it from eavesdropping and tampering. Experts do not view EV certificates as indicators of a more reputable or accountable company.
7 marketer opinions
While the type of SSL certificate (DV, OV, EV) itself doesn't directly impact email authentication protocols like SPF, DKIM, and DMARC, the presence of a valid SSL certificate (and therefore HTTPS) on linked websites and landing pages significantly affects email deliverability. Absence of SSL, or the presence of 'mixed content' (HTTPS pages loading HTTP resources), can trigger browser warnings, erode user trust, negatively impact engagement (click-through rates), and damage sender reputation, all of which ultimately harm deliverability. Maintaining consistent HTTPS usage demonstrates a commitment to security and builds trust, contributing to a positive sender reputation.
Marketer view
Email marketer from Reddit explains that SSL certificates on linked websites demonstrate a commitment to security, building trust with recipients. While not a direct ranking factor for mailbox providers, user engagement is influenced by perceived security, potentially boosting deliverability.
1 Aug 2024 - Reddit
Marketer view
Email marketer from Mailjet Blog states that SSL certificates on landing pages linked in emails indirectly affect deliverability. If a landing page lacks SSL, browsers may flag it as insecure, potentially harming sender reputation and deliverability.
18 Aug 2024 - Mailjet Blog
5 expert opinions
Experts agree that the *type* of SSL certificate (DV, OV, EV) does not directly impact email authentication or deliverability in the eyes of mailbox providers. Mailbox providers primarily focus on email authentication (SPF, DKIM, DMARC), user engagement, and sender reputation. However, *having* a valid SSL certificate (enabling HTTPS) on domains associated with email programs (landing pages, tracking links) is crucial. A valid certificate ensures user data is secure and builds a positive reputation. The lack of a valid SSL certificate can lead to browser warnings, erode user trust, negatively affect user experience and engagement, indirectly harming deliverability. EV certificates are not viewed as indicators of a more reputable company by mailbox providers.
Expert view
Expert from Email Geeks explains DV (domain validation) certificates involve proving domain ownership, are automated, and cheap to free. EV (extended validation) certificates involve proving Dun & Bradstreet number and payment clearing, and are expensive.
10 Apr 2025 - Email Geeks
Expert view
Expert from Spam Resource explains that SSL certificates are an important element of security. It shows commitment to your users, and ensures that user information is not exposed. SSL certs are essential for domains associated with your email program (e.g., tracking links, landing pages).
12 Apr 2022 - Spam Resource
3 technical articles
Technical documentation emphasizes the importance of TLS (SSL's successor) for securing email communications. TLS encrypts email during transmission, protecting it from eavesdropping and tampering, which enhances sender reputation. Proper certificate validation is vital for overall security, preventing configuration errors that lead to security warnings. Furthermore, avoiding mixed content (HTTPS pages loading HTTP resources) is crucial, as it presents a security risk, potentially triggering browser warnings, harming user experience, and damaging the credibility of emails.
Technical article
Documentation from MDN Web Docs explains that mixed content (HTTPS page loading HTTP resources) poses a security risk. Browsers often block or warn users about mixed content, which impacts user experience and can hurt the credibility of emails.
27 Aug 2024 - Mozilla
Technical article
Documentation from Google Workspace Admin Help emphasizes the importance of TLS (SSL's successor) for securing email communication. It explains that TLS encrypts email during transmission, protecting it from eavesdropping and tampering, which improves sender reputation.
6 Mar 2022 - Google
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