Storing certificates in Windows
On Windows computers, digital certificates are stored in a centralized repository called the Certificate Store, which is located in the system's security subsystem. To access the certificate store, follow these steps:
- Press the Windows key and type "certmgr.msc" in the search bar, then press Enter.
- The Certificate Manager will open, where you can view and manage your computer's certificates.
The certificates are organized in different folders according to their function:
- Personal certificates: These certificates are those that you have obtained as an individual user and are located in the "Certificates - Current User" folder.
- Certificates from intermediate authorities: They are located in the "Intermediate Certification Entities" folder and are certificates issued by organizations authorized to generate other certificates.
- Trusted root certificates: Certificates from the main certification authorities are stored in the “Trusted Root Certification Authorities” folder. These are necessary to ensure the validity and trust in a certificate.
Storing certificates in macOS
On computers running macOS, digital certificates are stored in an application called Keychain Access. To access this application, follow these steps:
- Open the Finder app and select “Applications”.
- In the “Utilities” folder, find and open “Access Keychain”.
The Access Keychain is divided into different categories of keychains:
- Login Keychain: Store your personal certificates, passwords, keys and other security data for your own use.
- System keychain: It contains the certificates used by the operating system and the applications installed on your computer.
Storing certificates in Linux
On computers running the Linux operating system, digital certificates are stored in the path "/etc/ssl/certs" for issuing authority certificates and "/etc/ssl/private" for private certificates. However, this may vary depending on the distribution you use. To access and manage your certificates, you can use command-line tools such as openssl or your distribution's file manager.
Storing certificates in web browsers
Web browsers also have their own certificate store, which they use to manage and verify the authenticity of secure (HTTPS) connections. Here's how to access the certificate storage in some of the most popular web browsers:
Google Chrome and Mozilla Firefox
Both browsers use the operating system store, whether Windows, macOS, or Linux, to manage their digital certificates. Therefore, these certificates are accessed by following the steps mentioned in the previous sections.
Internet Explorer and Microsoft Edge
These browsers use the Windows certificate store to manage their own certificates.
- In Internet Explorer, go to “Tools > Internet Options > Content > Certificates”.
- In Microsoft Edge, follow the steps described above for “Storing certificates in Windows.”
Management and protection of your digital certificates
It is important that you keep adequate control of your digital certificates and guarantee their security, since these are essential to ensure the confidentiality of your data and the authenticity of online communications. Some best practices include:
- Make backup copies of your certificates.
- Update and renew your certificates before they expire.
- Set strong passwords to protect your private certificates.
- Always use secure connections (SSL/TLS) when transmitting information online.
Now that you know where the digital certificates and how to manage them in different systems and browsers, you will be able to face this task with confidence and security. Don't forget to keep your certificates up to date and protected to maintain a secure and authenticated online environment.
