Utilizing SSL certificates is crucial for securing exchanges among various systems like clients, which interact with servers through web browsers or applications that link with remote systems. These certificates safeguard sensitive data shared between clients and servers, often including private details like credit card information or social security numbers.
This set of best practices for issuing, managing, renewing/replacing, and invalidating or retiring certificates is outlined in the SSL Certificate Best Practices Policy, devised by Scott Matteson for TechRepublic Premium.
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Certificate Issuance
Utilize dedicated internal certification authorities for internal certificates. Ensure they are robust and trusted by all internal clients and servers. Include all intermediate and root authorities to guarantee trust in the entire certificate chain.
For public-facing certificates, always opt for renowned external certificate authorities, as these are universally trusted by major browsers by default.
Configure all functions/processes capable of using SSL certificates to do so.
Strictly restrict certificate issuance/usage to authorized systems for legitimate business purposes.
Issue/procure certificates with a minimum two-year validity period.
Employ at least 2048-bit encryption for certificates.
Employ passwords with private keys where feasible.
Configure private keys to be non-exportable.
Utilize automated enrollment/renewal of SSL certificates when feasible. Considering employing configuration management software for certificate deployment is also advisable.
Enhance your security measures by referring to our comprehensive six-page document offered at just $9. Alternatively, unlock complimentary access with a Premium annual subscription.
TIME SAVED: Developing this content necessitated 12 hours of dedicated writing, editing, research, and design.
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