How to Update My SSL Certificate List
SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) is a cryptographic electronic document that provides security for communications between computers over the Internet. Besides sending data using encrypted text, SSL also contains a digital signature to bond together an ID key that verifies the legitimacy of a website and its owner or host server. SSL ensures data sent over the Web is not compromised. SSL certificates are widely used at secured locations where security is important, such as banking and merchant sites.
SSL certificates typically expire in one to three years, depending on the provider. You will need to repeat the steps to purchase a certificate for your individual domain and for each certificate on the SSL certificate list you want to update.
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Instructions
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Follow the instructions on your domain's server to create a new CSR (Certificate Signing Request) before purchasing SSL service. A SSL service provider needs this CSR to create your SSL certificate. Create a new CSR if your contact information has changed, such as a phone number, even if you have an existing SSL certificate for your website on the SSL certificate list.
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Find a SSL certificate provider, such as VeriSign, Entrust or GeoTrust, if you do not have one or wish to change your provider. Many service providers can cater to your needs and the type of certificate you choose.
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Log in to your account at the SSL certificate provider's website after purchasing service.
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Click on the "My Certificates" tab and select the certificate you wish to install or update. After you complete the installation or update request, your service provider will perform a quick check using the Whois records over the Internet to verify that your website exists and the owner is authentic.
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Download the certificate from your account once approved. In most cases, an email confirmation will also be sent. Download the certificate from the email attachment, if provided.
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Copy your existing certificate from your host server, if any. Keep it in a safe place as a backup in case your server crashes when installing the new certificate.
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Sign in to your domain account at your host company's website to access the certificate page for your website. Most servers will prompt you to paste the certificate into a field on the server; others will require you to upload the certificate from an email or a text file on your computer. The server installs the certificate when the requirement is fulfilled.
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Ask your host company to sign the installed SSL certificate. However, not all SSL certificates require a signature from the host company.
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Check your website for a small padlock icon in your system tray after updating your SSL certificate list. This means your host server is communicating with your computer using SSL.
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Tips & Warnings
Your server must be secure connection-enabled to use the SSL certificate. Check with your host company to be sure before purchasing SSL service.
Select the standard variety or an extended validation certificate. A standard SSL certificate provides only limited security; the extended validation certificate is built on the existing SSL certificate format with an additional multilayer of protection.
Make sure all required fields are filled for each website, or the SSL will not work properly.
