How to Obtain Private Key and Certificate for SSL Installation
How can I obtain the private key and certificate for my SSL?
Retrieving your private key and SSL certificate varies based on the control panel or platform used. Below are steps to acquire and install SSL certificates on DirectAdmin, cPanel, Plesk, and Windows IIS, along with direct links to IPServerOne’s Knowledge Base for detailed guidance.
DirectAdmin
- Generate CSR and Private Key:
In DirectAdmin, go to SSL Certificates and follow the instructions to generate a CSR (Certificate Signing Request), which also generates the private key. Save the private key securely as it won’t be retrievable later. - Install the Certificate:
After obtaining the SSL certificate, return to the SSL Certificates section, select the option to paste the certificate and private key, and save.
⚠️ Important Note: Save the private key after generating it, as it will not be retrievable later through DirectAdmin.
Reference link: DirectAdmin SSL Installation Guide
cPanel
- Generate Private Key and CSR:
Use SSL/TLS Manager in cPanel to generate a CSR, which will automatically create the private key. - Save and Install the Certificate:
After receiving the certificate, go to SSL/TLS Manager > Manage SSL Sites, and paste the certificate and private key to install SSL on the selected domain.
⚠️ Important Note: Be sure to save the private key when it’s generated, as cPanel does not store it for later retrieval.
Reference link: cPanel SSL Installation Guide
Plesk
- Generate CSR and Private Key:
Under Websites & Domains in Plesk, click on SSL/TLS Certificates > Add SSL Certificate to generate both the CSR and private key. - Install the Certificate:
Once you receive your certificate, upload it in the SSL/TLS Certificates section to complete installation.
⚠️ Important Note: Download and securely save your private key. Plesk will not allow you to retrieve it again once generated.
Reference link: Plesk SSL Installation Guide
Windows IIS
- Generate CSR and Private Key:
In IIS Manager, use Server Certificates to create a CSR. IIS stores the private key directly in the Windows system and does not display it. - Install the Certificate:
Once you have the SSL certificate, return to Server Certificates and select Complete Certificate Request.
⚠️ Important Note: IIS stores the private key securely in the Windows system and does not display it directly. You may need administrative access to export or manage it.
Reference link: Windows IIS SSL Installation Guide