How to Remove an SSL Certificate

SSL (Secure Socket Layer) certificates identify and authorize communication on a secure, encrypted connection via the Internet. However, in time, some certificates expire, and are therefore, rendered useless. When you are absolutely sure that you no longer need to correspond with a particular organization (nor they with you) via the Internet, their certificate may be a prime candidate for deletion. Follow the steps below to learn how to delete an unwanted SSL certificate the safe and fast way.

Instructions

1. Click on "Tools" from the Internet Explorer browser menu. Next, select "Internet Options."

2. 

   Go to the "Content" tab and under the Certificates section, click on the "Certificates" button.

3. 

   Select "All" from the drop-down box located next to "Intended Purpose." Use the scroll bar beside the last tab on the right to find the certificates listed by source type. Highlight the certificate you would like to delete. Next, click on "Remove."

4. 

   Click "Yes" at the prompt to continue the removal process.

5. Repeat Steps 3 and 4 to remove additional, unwanted certificates. When finished, click "Close" to exit the dialog box.

Tips & Warnings

• Review your list of SSL certificates annually and schedule it as a part of your computer maintenance program.

• It may be wise to keep an expired SSL certificate if you plan on contacting the organization again--even if it is rarely. Even though you must request a renewed certificate, it may shorten the time for the re-validation process, since you and your computer have already been previously authorized.

References

• Go to Microsoft's Website for More Info on Managing SSL Certificates

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish