Server certificates imported from .cer files are not retained in Microsoft IIS - WKB73219

SYMPTOMS

• When importing a certificate into Microsoft IIS (for use with SDMS WebVision or LMS Sample Share) via the Complete Certificate Request option, the certificate initially appears in the list but disappears when the screen is refreshed

ENVIRONMENT

• NuGenesis 9
  • IIS in Windows Server 2016 or 2012
• NuGenesis 8
  • IIS in Windows Server 2012

CAUSE

The certificate file does not contain a private key.

FIX or WORKAROUND

IIS requires a private key for the certificate. Ask for a .pfx file rather than a .cer file from the Certificate Authority (CA) administrator. Use the Import button in Microsoft IIS Manager to import the certificate.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Another option is to create a self-signed certificate in IIS Manager. While the use of self-signed certificates is not recommended for production or long-term use, it has been seen that simply creating the certificate will make the .cer certificates appear in IIS Manager. Use the CA-issued certificate in the IIS site configuration rather than the self-signed certificate.