SSL Certificate on Azure

What is an SSL certificate, and why is it important for Azure?

An SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) certificate, is an digitally issued document that created to allow for secure, encrypted connection between a server, for example a web server and a client, for example a web browser. Given the nature of information disclosed and shared by clients, it is crucial for Azure to ensure the integrity of such data, build credibility with users, and meet safety requirements.

Can I use a self-signed SSL certificate on Azure?

Although, you can easily create a self-signed SSL certificate in Azure but it is not very preferable if you are developing a production application because of the issues of security and compatibility associated with self-signed SSL certificates. To master these steps, you should use trusted SSL certificates from reputable Certificate Authorities (CA).

How do I obtain an SSL certificate for Azure?

You can obtain an SSL certificate from any of authentic CAs including Digicert, GoDaddy and Comodo among others. However, there are some Azure services in which the Azure provides the option of automated SSL certificate generation including Azure app service.

What information is required to request an SSL certificate for Azure?

Usually, you specify simpler details such as the FQDN that the certificate is to be used for, organization contact details, and confirmation of domain ownership.

How do I install the SSL certificate on Azure Web Apps?

If you obtain an SSL certificate, then you can deploy it in an Azure Web App either through Azure Portal, an ARM template, or Programmatic Scripts & CmdLets. This involves linking the certificate with your Web App as well as setting right parameters that relate to the SSL.

Can I use the same SSL certificate across multiple Azure services?

Yes, you can install one SSL certificate for many azure instances like Web Apps, Azure Cloud or App Services provided the certificate is for the domains or hostnames that are used for these services.

How often should I renew my SSL certificate on Azure?

SSL certificates also come with expiration date and are good for a period not less than one year or three years at most. Renewing your SSL certificate is important because, when the period of validity expires, you can lose the secure connection to the site, which may cause some or all of the services to be interrupted and the users get some type of a warning.

It is always more important for your web applications and services to ensure the transmission data security for users and protect personal information with HTTPS encryption. Microsoft’s cloud offering known as Azure offers several ways of deploying SSL & TLS certificates that would facilitate secure channeling. This tutorial will explain the steps of installing an SSL certificate in Azure in three various situations: targeting Azure App Service, Azure Kubernetes Service, or Azure Virtual Machines. This article shall underline how to go about it including obtaining a trusted CA (Certificate Authority), configuring and binding the certificate to the Azure resources.