How to Install a Wildcard SSL Certificate on Multiple Servers?

Installing a Wildcard SSL Certificate on multiple servers can be an intimidating task. However, with the right knowledge and steps, taking advantage of the encryption benefits of having a secure website connection is possible.

With this guide, you will learn all the necessary steps to install a wildcard SSL certificate on multiple servers to protect your customers’ data. So let’s get started!

What is a Wildcard SSL Certificate?

A Wildcard SSL Certificate is a digital certificate that secures multiple subdomains with a single certificate. This type of certificate provides an efficient and cost-effective way to secure numerous hostnames under one domain name, such as mail.domainname.com, shop.domainname.com, etc.

How to Install a Wildcard SSL Certificate on Multiple Servers?

Step 1: Purchase a Wildcard Certificate from an Authorized SSL Provider

To install a Wildcard SSL Certificate on multiple servers, you must first purchase a Wildcard SSL Certificate from authorized Certificate Authorities.

Your options will depend on your web server type and the desired level of security. Select a reputable SSL certificate provider offering reliable technical support throughout installation.

Step 2: Generate the CSR (Certificate Signing Request) for the Wildcard Certificate

After purchasing the Wildcard SSL Certificate, you must generate a Certificate Signing Request (CSR) for wildcard SSL from the web server hosting the certificate. This CSR will contain information about your organization, domain, and encryption keys for secure communication.

Step 3: Submit the CSR to your Trusted SSL Provider and get the Certificates Issuance from them

This involves sending the Certificate Signing Request (CSR) to your preferred SSL Certificate provider. Your provider will then issue the Wildcard SSL certificate tailored for you and your servers.

You can get separate certificates for each server or use a Unified Communications Certificate (UCC), allowing you to install one certificate on multiple IIS servers.

Step 4: Download all CA Bundle Files Provided by the Certificate Authority

A CA bundle, intermediate certificate and root certificate. These files are usually in the form of a .zip or .crt file. Make sure to store them in a secure place on your computer. You will need these certificates again when you install the Wildcard SSL Certificate on multiple servers.

Step 5: Install the Root Certificate on Each Server you Need to Secure Using your SSL Certificate

The root certificate must be installed on every server to validate the Wildcard SSL Certificate. This can be done through the administrative console of your web server (such as IIS) or manually by importing and installing the files. You can also buy cheap Wildcard SSL Certificate if you have multiple servers.

Step 6: Install the Intermediate Certificate on each Server

This will require copying the certificate from the main server. Access each other server and install it by accessing the certificate manager within IIS. Once each intermediate certificate is installed, restart the server for changes to take effect.

Step 7: Install the CA Bundle File on each Server

Once the certificate files have been generated, they must be installed on all necessary servers. The process for installing an SSL certificate differs depending on the server type being used.

The Bottom Line

Installing a Wildcard SSL Certificate on multiple servers is not as difficult as it sounds. Once you have purchased the certificate, you need to create the CSR from your server, generate the necessary files, and install them on all your servers.