Q. How can I obtain a certificate so that I can enable Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) on my Microsoft IIS server?

A. Before you can use SSL for an IIS server, you must obtain a certificate. To request a certificate from your Certificate Authority (CA), perform the following steps:

1. Start IIS Manager--click Start, Programs, Administrative Tools, Internet Information Services (IIS) Manager.
2. Expand the Web sites, right-click the Web site for which you want to request a certificate (e.g., Default Web Site), and click Properties.
3. Click the Directory Security tab.
4. In the "Security communications" section, click Server Certificate.
5. In the Web Server Certificate Wizard, click Next.
6. Select the option "Create a new certificate" and click Next.
7. Fill in the necessary details to request a certificate.