How to Install SSL Certificates in Microsoft IIS 10.x

Are you all set to take your website security a notch higher and enhance your authenticity? Installing SSL Certificates in Microsoft IIS 10.x is a vital measure that ensures the security of the site as well as puts the page on better ranks in the search engines. This guide provides an easy and concise step-by-step explanation that will also make the process simple for even those who are beginners.

In this article, we will discuss:

• How to Install SSL Certificate
• How to Assign the SSL Certificate
• Review

How to Install SSL Certificate

The certificate should be coming from us, a file typically named your_domain_com.crt, and the CA bundle file containing the intermediate certificates, typically named either dv_chain.txt, ov_chain.txt, or ev_chain.txt and downloadable from your SSL control panel.

Follow these instructions to copy the file(s) you received to the server:

• A wizard will pop up. On the Specify Certificate Authority Response page, you'll need to fill in some details:
  
   
  • File name containing the certificate authority's response: Click the ... button and find the .cer file you saved earlier (e.g., your_domain_com.cer).
  • Friendly name: Give your certificate a recognizable name. It won't be part of the actual certificate, but it helps you identify it later. A good practice is to include the issuer and expiration date, like this: yoursite-webcom-(expiration date).
  • Select a certificate store for the new certificate: Choose Web Hosting from the drop-down list.
• Once you've filled in all the details, click OK.

How to Assign the SSL Certificate

Now that you've installed your SSL certificate, it's time to assign it to your website so it can use HTTPS.

1. In IIS Manager, go to the Connections menu tree on the left. Expand your server's name, then expand Sites, and click on the site you want to secure.
   


2. On your website’s home page (center pane), in the Actions menu on the right, under Edit Site, click Bindings….
   


3. The Site Bindings window will appear. Click Add.
   


4. In the Add Site Bindings window, set the following:
   
    
   • Type: Select https from the drop-down list
   • IP address: Choose the IP address of your site or select All Unassigned.
   • Port: Type 443 (this is the standard port for secure HTTPS connections).
   • SSL certificate: From the drop-down list, select the new SSL certificate you installed in How to Install SSL Certificate section.
5. Click OK to save the new binding.

You're all set! Your website is now configured to use HTTPS.

Review

Congratulations! By following these steps, you've successfully navigated the world of SSL Certificates in Microsoft IIS 10.x. Your website is now fortified with enhanced security, paving the way for improved SEO performance and increased visitor trust.