Contents
What is a CSR (Certificate Signing Request)?
A CSR, or Certificate Signing Request, is a file that contains all the information required to issue an SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) certificate. An SSL certificate is used to secure websites, ensuring the transfer of sensitive information, such as credit card details or login credentials, is encrypted and protected.
When a website wishes to obtain an SSL certificate, it needs to generate a CSR file. The CSR file contains the public key for the certificate along with other identifying information, such as the domain name, organization name, and location.
Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how the CSR process works:
Step 1: Certificate Generation
The website administrator or organization generates a private key and a CSR file. The private key is kept secure and should never be shared.
Step 2: Filling out the CSR
When generating the CSR, the administrator fills in the required information, such as the common name (the domain name for which the SSL certificate will be issued), organization details, and location.
Step 3: Submitting the CSR
Once the CSR is generated, it is submitted to a Certificate Authority (CA), a trusted third-party that issues SSL certificates. The CA will use the information in the CSR to verify the identity of the website or organization making the request.
Step 4: Certificate Issuance
If the CA verifies the information in the CSR, it will issue an SSL certificate. The certificate contains the public key, domain name, organization details, and CA’s digital signature. The CA’s digital signature acts as proof of authenticity and is used by web browsers to establish a secure connection.
Once the certificate is issued, it can be installed on the website’s server, enabling secure HTTPS connections. The private key, generated in Step 1, is required to complete the installation process.
In summary, a CSR (Certificate Signing Request) is an essential component of obtaining an SSL certificate. It contains the necessary information to verify the identity of a website or organization and plays a crucial role in establishing secure connections over the internet.
Reference Articles
Read also
[Google Chrome] The definitive solution for right-click translations that no longer come up.