In the field of security and digital authentication, Root Certificates play an essential role in establishing trust between users and websites. With the goal of expanding global trust coverage, GlobalSign has launched the Root Ubiquity program to ensure their digital certificates are accepted across most platforms. So, what exactly is this program and what benefits does it offer? Let’s find out!
Table of Contents
What is GlobalSign Root Ubiquity?
GlobalSign Root Ubiquity is a program developed by GlobalSign to optimize the integration of its Root Certificates into:
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Web browsers (Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge, etc.)
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Operating systems (Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS)
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Mobile devices, application software, and security hardware
The goal is to ensure GlobalSign’s SSL/TLS certificates and authentication services are widely trusted, allowing users to access websites and digital services without encountering security warning messages.

Why is Root Ubiquity Important?
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Increased trust: Websites and services using GlobalSign certificates are instantly trusted by browsers and devices.
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Better user experience: Users are not interrupted by security warning pop-ups.
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Global business support: With broad Root acceptance, businesses can confidently serve customers anywhere in the world.
Root Certificates Supported in the Ubiquity Program
GlobalSign manages multiple Root Certificates under the Root Ubiquity program, including:
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GlobalSign Root CA – R1
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GlobalSign Root CA – R2
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GlobalSign Root CA – R3
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GlobalSign ECC Root CA – R4
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GlobalSign ECC Root CA – R5
Each Root Certificate varies in cryptographic algorithm (RSA or ECC), intended use, and validity period.
Compatibility with Major Platforms
GlobalSign’s Root Certificates are integrated and trusted by:
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Major browsers: Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge, Opera…
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Operating systems: Windows (from Windows XP SP3 onwards), macOS, iOS, Android, Linux
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Specialized hardware and software: Including IoT devices, mobile devices, secure servers
This ensures GlobalSign’s SSL/TLS certificates and digital solutions function reliably across multi-platform environments without compatibility issues.
Enrollment and Management Process of Root Ubiquity
GlobalSign undertakes the following steps:
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Submits Root Certificates to root governance organizations (e.g., Microsoft Root Program, Mozilla Root Store Policy)
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Meets technical and security requirements, passes international standard audits and ongoing assessments
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Ensures continuous acceptance and maintenance of Root Certificates across distribution systems
GlobalSign’s Commitments in the Root Ubiquity Program
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High reliability: Compliance with strict security standards such as WebTrust for CAs
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Update readiness: Constant monitoring of changes in Root distribution ecosystems
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Transparency: Publicly discloses Root Certificate information in repositories and user support systems
Compatibility of GlobalSign Root Certificates Across Platforms
GlobalSign Root Certificates are designed to be compatible with a wide range of platforms and operating systems:
Platform | Root R1 | Root R3 | Root R5 | Root R6 |
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Mozilla | NSS 3.11.10 Firefox 1.0 |
NSS 3.12.8 Firefox 3.6.12 |
NSS 3.17.3 Firefox 36 |
NSS 3.39 Firefox 63 |
Microsoft | XP Vista Win 7 IE 5.01 |
XP Vista Win 7 IE 8 |
Win 8.1 IE 10 |
Win 10 IE 11 |
Apple | MacOS 9.0 MacOS X 10.5.6 iOS 3 Safari 1 |
MacOS X 10.6.4 iOS 4 Safari 4 |
MacOS X 10.9 iOS 7 Safari 7 |
TBA |
Android | Android 1 | Android 3 | Android 5.1.1 | Android 10 |
Chrome | Root is embedded if it is embedded in the local operating system key store. | |||
Amazon | Root is embedded if it is embedded in the local operating system key store. | |||
Java | SE 5 | SE 8 | SE 8 | JDK 12 |
Opera | 6.1 | 10 | 15 | 28 |
Blackberry | 4.3 | 5 | 10.3 | NA |
Linux | All major Linux distributions (Debian, Ubuntu, etc.) | |||
Sony | PS Portable PS 3 PS 4 |
PS Portable PS 3 PS 4 |
TBA | TBA |
Nintendo | Wii Wii U DS |
Wii Wii U DS |
TBA | TBA |
Adobe |
|
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions about GlobalSign Root Ubiquity
1. Does my website need to manually configure the Root Certificate if I use a GlobalSign certificate?
Usually not. The Root Certificates are pre-integrated into browsers and operating systems through the Root Ubiquity program.
2. What if a device doesn’t recognize GlobalSign’s Root Certificate?
You may need to update the browser, operating system, or manually install the Root Certificate (although this is rare).
3. Does the Root Ubiquity program apply to personal certificates?
Yes. GlobalSign’s Root Certificates support SSL/TLS for websites, digital signature certificates for individuals, and email encryption certificates.
Read more: https://support.globalsign.com/ca-certificates/root-certificates/globalsign-root-ubiquity