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FAQs

Where is OpenSSL installed?

By default, the OpenSSL directory is /usr/local/ssl for Linux distributions and C:OpenSSL-Win32 for Windows.

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Who uses OpenSSL?

Anyone can use OpenSSL to manage SSL certificate installations. Using OpenSSL on Windows and Linux is a quick and efficient way to encrypt websites. Both seasoned developers and novice admins benefit from OpenSSL command lines.

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What does OpenSSL do?

OpenSSL is a free and open-source command line tool used to generate CSRs, create private keys, install an SSL certificate, and verify certificate information. OpenSSL is compatible with both Windows and Linux distributions.

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Is the Certificate Signing Request Confidential?

No, the CSR is not confidential, as it has no value other than helping the CA sign your SSL Certificate. And, while it does not contain any encryption keys, you should keep it to yourself. Sharing it with third parties or in public spaces like forums and websites will draw unnecessary attention to your sensitive details.

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How Long Is a Certificate Signing Request Valid?

On some systems like Aruba ClearPass, the certificate signing request is valid for only 15 days. While this may be an extreme example, your SSL certificate, which lasts one year, should determine the CSR validity. When renewing your SSL certificate, you should generate a new CSR code to keep your information up to date and adhere to the best security practices.

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What Does Signing a Certificate Mean?

When an SSL certificate is signed it means a Certificate Authority looked at the SSL applicant and decided that the information provided in the CSR (Certificate Signing Request) is correct and legitimate.

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What Is a Certificate Signing Request Used For?

The CSR is a small block of encoded text with your contact data required by the CA to verify your credentials before issuing the SSL certificate.

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How to Choose a Certificate Authority?

Ensure that the CA is trustworthy and valid. All commercial CAs offer reliable digital certificates with SSL warranties in the unlikely event of a data breach or fraudulent issuance. Next, determine your website needs and budget before getting a digital certificate. A tool like SSL Wizard can help you choose the perfect certificate for your project.

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How Does a Certificate Authority Verify Identity?

Depending on the SSL validation level, the CA will run a series of checks to establish identity. For Domain Validation certificates, verifying domain ownership is an automated process that requires the applicant to follow pre-established steps.

If you request Business or Extended Validation SSL, the CA will use public databases to confirm your company’s identity. If it fails to do so, the CA will ask you to submit additional paperwork.

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Are Certificate Authorities Free?

Private CAs are free, but their certificates are self-signed and not suitable for the Internet. On the other hand, Public CAs can be both free and commercial. Browsers and operating systems will trust a free or commercial digital certificate if it’s signed by a public CA.

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