What are the key differences between BIMI certificate vendors Entrust and DigiCert?

Summary

While some sources suggest the end result of using either Entrust or DigiCert for BIMI is similar, distinctions exist in process, security measures, customer service, and user interface. Entrust is praised for strong security and support; DigiCert for user-friendliness and efficient certificate issuance. BIMI implementation relies on VMCs (issued by CAs after legal verification), SPF, DKIM, DMARC, and a BIMI DNS record. Costs for VMCs vary. Successful implementation requires technical expertise in DNS and email authentication. Troubleshooting involves checking DNS records and VMC validity.

Key findings

  • Similar End Result, Different Process: The final outcome of using either Entrust or DigiCert may be similar, but the process of obtaining and implementing BIMI certificates can differ.
  • Entrust's Strengths: Entrust is known for its strong security features and proactive customer support.
  • DigiCert's Strengths: DigiCert is recognized for its user-friendly interface and efficient certificate issuance.
  • VMC is Key: BIMI implementation requires a valid VMC, obtained from a Certificate Authority after legal verification of logo ownership.
  • Email Authentication Standards: Compliance with SPF, DKIM, and DMARC email authentication protocols is essential for BIMI to function.
  • DNS Configuration is Critical: Properly configured DNS records are fundamental to successful BIMI implementation.
  • BIMI Cost Factors: While BIMI itself is free to implement, the cost of obtaining a VMC varies depending on the vendor and features included.

Key considerations

  • Vendor Evaluation: Carefully evaluate vendor reputation, customer support, pricing, and compatibility with your existing infrastructure.
  • Technical Expertise: Ensure you have the necessary technical skills or resources to configure DNS records and implement SPF, DKIM, and DMARC properly.
  • Logo Ownership: Verify legal ownership of the brand logo before pursuing BIMI implementation.
  • Troubleshooting Resources: Familiarize yourself with BIMI technical details, including DNS record structure and logo validation processes, for effective troubleshooting.
  • Cost-Benefit Analysis: Assess the long-term value and benefits of BIMI, considering the cost of the VMC and implementation efforts.

What email marketers say
9Marketer opinions

The key differences between BIMI certificate vendors Entrust and DigiCert appear to be nuanced. Some sources suggest minimal difference in the end result, while others highlight distinctions in process, security measures, customer service, and user interface. Entrust is often praised for strong security and customer support, while DigiCert is favored for its user-friendliness and efficient certificate issuance. The cost can vary, and it's crucial to consider long-term value and support. Implementation also requires careful attention to DNS records and email authentication protocols (SPF, DKIM, DMARC).

Key opinions

  • Minimal End Result Difference: Some experts suggest that the ultimate outcome of using either Entrust or DigiCert for BIMI certificates is largely the same.
  • Process Variations: The process of obtaining and implementing BIMI certificates may differ between Entrust and DigiCert.
  • Entrust Strengths: Entrust is noted for its robust security features, proactive customer service, and comprehensive capabilities.
  • DigiCert Strengths: DigiCert is often preferred for its user-friendly interface, efficient certificate issuance, and robust encryption.
  • Cost Variations: The cost of BIMI certificates can vary among vendors, emphasizing the importance of evaluating long-term value and support.

Key considerations

  • Vendor Reputation: Assess the reputation and credibility of each vendor before making a decision.
  • Customer Support: Evaluate the quality and responsiveness of customer support offered by each vendor.
  • Pricing and Features: Compare pricing models, available features, and overall value proposition.
  • Infrastructure Compatibility: Ensure compatibility with existing email infrastructure and authentication protocols.
  • DNS Configuration: Pay close attention to proper DNS record configuration for successful BIMI implementation.
  • Email Authentication: Verify the correct setup of SPF, DKIM, and DMARC for email authentication.
Marketer view

Email marketer from Reddit shares that the cost of a BIMI certificate can vary depending on the vendor and the specific features included. While some vendors may offer lower initial prices, it's essential to consider the long-term value and support provided. Investing in a reputable vendor can ensure a smoother implementation process and better email security.

December 2024 - Reddit
Marketer view

Marketer from Email Geeks explains that there isn't really any difference between Entrust and DigiCert for BIMI certificates. They also mention their employer is an Entrust partner.

November 2022 - Email Geeks
Marketer view

Marketer from Email Geeks says that Entrust does not jack up the price, from what they know.

December 2022 - Email Geeks
Marketer view

Email marketer from StackOverflow recommends checking BIMI DNS records, verifying the validity of VMCs, and ensuring proper implementation of SPF, DKIM, and DMARC when troubleshooting BIMI implementation issues. Utilizing online tools and resources can help identify and resolve common problems.

June 2024 - StackOverflow
Marketer view

Marketer from Email Geeks shares that the end result between vendors should be the same and that the process may be different.

May 2021 - Email Geeks
Marketer view

Email marketer from DigiCert.com explains that DigiCert BIMI certificates help organizations strengthen their email security posture, protect their brand reputation, and improve email deliverability rates. With DigiCert's robust authentication and encryption solutions, businesses can ensure that their emails are securely delivered to recipients' inboxes, fostering trust and confidence in their brand.

August 2024 - DigiCert.com
Marketer view

Email marketer from TrustRadius shares that Entrust is highly praised for its strong security measures, proactive customer service, and comprehensive features, making it a reliable choice for businesses looking to protect their digital identities. DigiCert is favored for its user-friendly interface, efficient certificate issuance, and robust encryption capabilities, providing peace of mind to organizations seeking to safeguard their sensitive data.

December 2022 - TrustRadius
Marketer view

Email marketer from Quora suggests evaluating factors such as the vendor's reputation, customer support, pricing, and compatibility with existing email infrastructure when choosing a BIMI certificate provider. Researching reviews, comparing features, and requesting quotes from multiple vendors can help organizations make an informed decision.

September 2021 - Quora
Marketer view

Email marketer from Entrust.com explains that BIMI certificates benefit organizations by showcasing their brand logos in recipient inboxes, increasing brand recognition and trust. By implementing BIMI, companies can enhance email security and credibility, improving overall email engagement and response rates.

September 2024 - Entrust.com

What the experts say
2Expert opinions

While BIMI itself is free, obtaining a VMC from a CA like Entrust or DigiCert incurs a cost, with pricing varying between vendors. Implementing BIMI successfully requires careful DNS configuration and adherence to email authentication best practices (SPF, DKIM, DMARC).

Key opinions

  • BIMI Cost: BIMI implementation is free, but a VMC is required and costs vary by vendor.
  • Vendor Pricing: Entrust and DigiCert individually set their prices for VMCs.
  • DNS Configuration: Careful DNS configuration is essential for BIMI implementation.
  • Email Authentication: Adherence to SPF, DKIM, and DMARC best practices is crucial for BIMI adoption.

Key considerations

  • VMC Cost Research: Research and compare VMC pricing directly on Entrust and DigiCert websites.
  • Technical Expertise: Ensure you have the technical expertise to configure DNS records and implement SPF, DKIM, and DMARC correctly, or seek assistance.
  • Validation: Proper implementation and validation of DNS records and email authentication are crucial for successful BIMI adoption.
Expert view

Expert from Word to the Wise explains that BIMI itself is free to implement, but obtaining a VMC (Verified Mark Certificate) from an authorized Certification Authority (CA) like Entrust Datacard or DigiCert incurs a cost. They also state that these vendors set their prices individually, so it's best to check the exact prices on their websites.

August 2021 - Word to the Wise
Expert view

Expert from Word to the Wise responds that implementing BIMI requires careful configuration of DNS records and adherence to email authentication best practices, such as SPF, DKIM, and DMARC. Ensuring proper implementation and validation of these technologies is crucial for successful BIMI adoption.

May 2023 - Word to the Wise

What the documentation says
3Technical articles

BIMI uses VMCs issued by CAs like Sectigo, DigiCert and Entrust to validate brand logo ownership. Implementation requires a valid VMC, SPF, DKIM, DMARC, and a BIMI DNS record. Understanding the BIMI DNS record structure and logo validation process is crucial for troubleshooting and optimization.

Key findings

  • VMC Validation: BIMI relies on VMCs to verify brand logo ownership in emails.
  • CA Issuance: VMCs are issued by Certificate Authorities after verifying legal rights to the logo.
  • Implementation Requirements: BIMI implementation necessitates a valid VMC, SPF, DKIM, DMARC, and a BIMI DNS record.
  • Technical Understanding: Understanding the BIMI DNS record and logo validation process is key for troubleshooting and optimization.

Key considerations

  • Legal Verification: Ensure you have legal ownership of the logo you intend to use with BIMI.
  • Technical Setup: Properly configure SPF, DKIM, and DMARC email authentication protocols.
  • DNS Management: Publish a valid BIMI DNS record according to specifications.
  • Troubleshooting Resources: Familiarize yourself with the BIMI DNS record structure and logo validation process to effectively troubleshoot any issues.
Technical article

Documentation from DigiCert explains that to implement BIMI, organizations need to meet certain requirements, including having a valid VMC issued by an authorized CA, implementing SPF, DKIM, and DMARC email authentication protocols, and publishing a BIMI DNS record. Meeting these requirements ensures that email clients can securely display the brand's logo in recipients' inboxes.

January 2024 - DigiCert.com
Technical article

Documentation from Entrust provides technical details on how BIMI works, including the structure of the BIMI DNS record, the process of logo validation, and the interaction between email servers and email clients. Understanding these technical aspects can help organizations troubleshoot issues and optimize their BIMI implementation.

August 2021 - Entrust.com
Technical article

Documentation from Sectigo explains that BIMI relies on VMCs (Verified Mark Certificates) to validate the ownership of the brand logo displayed in emails. VMCs are issued by Certificate Authorities (CAs) like Sectigo after verifying the organization's legal right to use the logo, ensuring that only authorized brands can display their logos in email communications.

June 2022 - Sectigo.com