How to Find a Lost SSL Key

Searching for files is arduous without the use of search utilities.

Secure Socket Layer is a protocol used to encrypt connections that are established between a client and server such as a web browser and web server. SSL depends upon digital certificates that include the identification of the server and/or the client, identification of a trusted third party and encryption keys that are used to secure SSL connections. Find SSL keys you wish to move to a new computer using tools that are built into the Windows operating system.

Instructions

1. Click the "Start" button located on the desktop of the Windows computer, then click the "Search" box.

2. Type ".pem .crt .cer .key .der .p7b .p7c .pfx .p12 .key" and press the "Enter" key.

3. Right-click on the bar at the top of the search results list and click "More." Click "Path" in the menu that appears. The path to each file found will appear.

4. Note the path to each file. The SSL key file you wish to find is located in the directory path that includes the name or acronym of the program or service for which the key is used.

References

• Microsoft MSDN: How to Enable Windows Search Service in Windows Server 2008
• Microsoft Windows: Windows Search
• Microsoft Windows: Windows Search Tips and Tricks
• Instant SSL: IIS 4x -- Frequently Asked Questions
• SSL Shopper: SSL Converter