How to Generate a CSR for Microsoft® IIS 5.x / 6.x
Learn how to generate a Certificate Signing Request (CSR) on Microsoft® IIS 5.x and 6.x servers with step-by-step instructions. The guide covers new SSL certificate installations and renewals using Internet Services Manager. Key tips are included to help prevent common issues such as mishandling pending requests and ensure a smooth and secure CSR process.
- Log in to the server. Go to Control Panel > Administrative Tools and double-click Internet Services Manager.
- Right-click the website where you require the CSR and choose Properties. Select the Directory Security tab.
- Click the Server Certificate button. A wizard will start. Choose the option to Create a new certificate, then click Next.
- Click Prepare the request now, send it later, then click Next.
- Enter your information. The Name refers to a Friendly or Descriptive Name for the certificate, and is not your domain. Set the bit length to 2048, then click Next.
- Enter your Organization and Organizational unit information, then click Next.
- Enter the fully qualified domain name of the website where you require the certificate. For wildcard certificates, enter in the format *.mydomain.com, then click Next.
- Enter your location information, then click Next.
- Choose a path and filename to save the CSR, then click Next.
- Review the information. Click Next. Your CSR is now generated.
- Open the certreq.txt file with a text editor and copy and paste the contents into the enrollment form when requested.
You have generated your CSR for Microsoft IIS 5.x/6.x.
Note: If you are generating a CSR for a certificate renewal, step 3 should have an option to renew the certificate and generate a new CSR. Select this and follow the wizard to create a renewal CSR for the certificate.
The CSR generation process creates a Pending Request on the website. Do not remove this pending request. The request is complete once you receive and install the certificate. Removing the Pending Request before you have installed your certificate will render the certificate useless, and you will need to repeat the entire CSR generation process and resubmit the CSR to us.
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Review
The step-by-step guide to generating a CSR on Microsoft® IIS 5.x and 6.x is a clear, well-structured resource for users. It simplifies what can be a complex process, ensuring that users can complete their CSR accurately. The inclusion of detailed screenshots and cautionary notes about pending requests adds practical value, helping prevent common mistakes that could delay SSL deployment. It's a reliable and informative reference for managing SSL certificates on legacy IIS servers.