Generating a server certificate

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Creating a server identity certificate involves purchasing one from a trusted Certificate Authority (CA) and then configuring it for your web server. Here are the general steps to create a server identity certificate from a paid service:

Step 1: Choose a Certificate Authority (CA)

Research and select a reputable Certificate Authority (CA). Some well-known CAs include DigiCert, GlobalSign, Comodo, VeriSign, GoDaddy and Entrust.

Step 2: Purchase the Certificate

Visit the CA's website and navigate to their SSL/TLS certificate offerings.

Choose the type of certificate that suits your needs. Common types include Domain Validated (DV), Organization Validated (OV), and Extended Validation (EV) certificates.

Follow the CA's instructions to purchase the certificate. This typically involves providing details about your organization and the domain you want to secure.

Step 3: Generate a Certificate Signing Request (CSR)

On your web server where you intend to install the certificate, generate a CSR. The exact method depends on your server software (e.g., Apache, Nginx, IIS). Most server software provides tools or commands to generate a CSR.

During the CSR generation, you will be prompted to provide information about your organization and domain. This information must match what you provided to the CA during the purchase.

Alternatively, you can generate one using openssl. See article on how to do that here. Note that you must upload the private key that openssl generates to the targeted web server when using this method.

Step 4: Submit CSR to the CA

Log in to your CA account.

Find the option to request or purchase a certificate.

Paste your CSR into the provided form.

Review the details and complete the certificate purchase process.

Step 5: Verify Domain Ownership (DV Certificates Only)

For DV certificates, you may need to prove domain ownership to the CA. This is often done by responding to an email sent to a specific address associated with the domain or by adding a DNS record specified by the CA.

Step 6: Certificate Issuance

The CA will review your request and, if everything is in order, issue the certificate. This process may take a few minutes to several days, depending on the type of certificate and CA.

Step 7: Download and Install the Certificate

Once the CA issues the certificate, download it from your CA account or follow their provided instructions.

Install the certificate on your web server, again following the specific instructions for your server software. This usually involves configuring your server to use the certificate file and its associated private key.

Step 8: Configure HTTPS

After installing the certificate, configure your web server to use HTTPS (SSL/TLS). Update your server's configuration to listen on port 443 (the default HTTPS port) and specify the paths to the certificate and private key files.

Test your HTTPS setup to ensure the certificate is working correctly.

Step 9: Monitor and Renew

Regularly monitor your certificate's expiration date. Certificates typically have a validity period (e.g., one year). Be sure to renew your certificate before it expires to avoid disruption in service.

Remember that specific steps and interfaces may vary depending on the CA and your web server software. Always refer to the documentation provided by your CA and server software for detailed instructions.