Does https have to be a domain name?

When browsing the web, we often see that the URL starts with "https://", which makes many people wonder: "Does https have to be a domain name?" In fact, although HTTPS is bound to a domain name in most cases, it is not absolutely necessary.

This article will focus on the question "Does https have to be a domain name?" and explore the relationship between HTTPS and domain names, as well as how to implement HTTPS without a domain name.

1. The relationship between HTTPS and domain names

1. Basic concepts of HTTPS

HTTPS (Hyper Text Transfer Protocol Secure) is a secure version of the HTTP protocol. It encrypts data through the SSL/TLS protocol to ensure the security of data during transmission. In traditional HTTPS configurations, SSL certificates are usually issued to domain names to verify the identity of websites.

2. The role of domain names in HTTPS

Domain names are mainly used in HTTPS for:

Authentication: SSL certificates verify the ownership of domain names to ensure that users are visiting legitimate websites.

User-friendly: Domain names are easier to remember than IP addresses, which improves user experience.

Search engine optimization: Domain names using HTTPS usually have higher ranking weights in search engines.

Therefore, domain names play an important role in HTTPS, but it does not mean that HTTPS must rely on domain names.

2. HTTPS can be achieved without domain names

1. Apply for SSL certificates with IP addresses

Although most SSL certificates are issued for domain names, there are also SSL certificates issued for IP addresses, called IP SSL certificates. This type of certificate allows HTTPS encryption to be achieved directly through IP addresses. According to relevant information, the following conditions must be met to apply for IP SSL certificates:

Public IP address: Public IP must be used, and intranet IP cannot be applied for.

IP management authority: Applicants must prove that they have management authority over the IP address.

Certificate type restrictions: Usually only DV (domain name verification) and OV (organization verification) level certificates can be applied for.

By meeting the above conditions, you can apply for SSL certificates for IP addresses and achieve HTTPS encryption.

2. Usage scenarios

In the following scenarios, it is feasible to use IP addresses to implement HTTPS:

Test environment: In the development or testing stage, the domain name may not be bound yet. At this time, HTTPS can be configured using IP addresses.

Internal system: Some internal systems or services may only be accessed through IP addresses, and using IP SSL certificates can ensure communication security.

Temporary access: When the domain name has not been resolved or changed, temporarily access the website through the IP address.

Therefore, although the answer to "Does https have to be a domain name?" is yes in most cases, it is also feasible to implement HTTPS using IP addresses in specific scenarios.

III. Notes on configuring HTTPS

1. Choose the appropriate certificate type

Choose the appropriate SSL certificate type according to your needs:

DV certificate: Verifies domain name ownership, suitable for personal websites or blogs.

OV certificate: Verifies organizational information, suitable for corporate websites.

EV certificate: Provides the highest level of verification, suitable for sites with high security requirements such as finance and e-commerce.

For IP addresses, usually only DV or OV level certificates can be applied.

2. Configure the server

When configuring HTTPS on the server, you need to:

Install the SSL certificate: Install the applied certificate on the server.

Configure the listening port: Make sure the server listens to port 443 for HTTPS communication.

Adjust firewall settings: Allow HTTPS traffic to pass through the firewall.

Ensure that HTTPS is functioning properly by configuring your server correctly.