How to install an SSL certificate on a Windows server ?

Introduction

Securing your website with an SSL certificate is crucial for ensuring data integrity and building trust with your users. SSL certificates encrypt data transmitted between your server and your users' browsers, protecting sensitive information from being intercepted by malicious actors. In this guide, we'll walk you through the process of installing an SSL certificate on a Windows server using Internet Information Services (IIS).

Prerequisites

1. You should have already obtained an SSL certificate. This typically involves purchasing one from a trusted Certificate Authority (CA) or obtaining one through a free provider like Let's Encrypt.

2. You should have access to your Windows server via Remote Desktop.

3. Ensure that you have the necessary administrative privileges to manage certificates and IIS on the server.

Installation Steps

Step 1: Log in to your server using Remote Desktop.

Step 2: Open IIS Manager by clicking Start > Administrative Tools > Internet Information Services (IIS) Manager.

Step 3: Double-click the computer name at the top-left of the window.

Step 4: On the right-hand side, scroll down and double-click the Server Certificates icon.

Step 5: On the top-right of the Actions pane, click the Import link.

Step 6: In the new window, click the ellipsis (...) button to locate the .pfx file on the server. Enter your password when generating the PFX file into the text box. Also, check the box for Allow this certificate to be exported. When finished, click the OK button.

Step 7: You will see the certificate added to IIS on the right-hand side. Next, click Sites on the left-hand side.

Step 8: Double-click the website that the SSL is for.

Step 9: On the right-hand side, click the Bindings link.

Step 10: Click the Add button.

Step 11: Select https from the Type drop-down box.

Step 12: Select the IP address from the drop-down box that the domain uses if you plan to install more than one SSL certificate.

Step 13: From the SSL certificate drop-down box, select the certificate you just added. Optionally, you can choose to change the port number for the binding; however, it is recommended to leave the default 443.

Step 14: Click the OK button when you are finished.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You have successfully installed an SSL certificate on your Windows server using IIS. Your website is now equipped with encryption capabilities, providing a secure connection for your users' data. Regularly update and manage your SSL certificates to maintain the security of your website.