How to install an SSL certificate on Azure?

Installing an SSL certificate on Azure can be achieved using two methods: using Azure App Service or using Azure Key Vault. Here’s a detailed guide on how to install an SSL certificate on Azure using both methods:

Method 1: Install SSL Certificate using Azure App Service

Prerequisites:

1. An SSL certificate: You need to have an SSL certificate purchased from a trusted Certificate Authority (CA). You can purchase a certificate from providers like Let’s Encrypt, Cloudflare, or Comodo.
2. Access to Azure App Service: You need to have access to your Azure App Service to perform the installation process. This typically involves logging in to the Azure Portal or using the Azure CLI.
3. Extracted Certificate Files: Your SSL certificate is typically provided as a zip file containing multiple files, including the certificate file (.crt), the private key file (.key), and the intermediate certificate chain (optional). Extract these files to a secure location on your computer.

Installing the SSL Certificate Using Azure App Service

1. Upload Certificate to Azure Blob Storage: Upload the extracted certificate files (.crt, .key, and .ca-bundle, if present) to an Azure Blob Storage account. You can use Azure Storage Explorer or the Azure CLI to upload the files.
2. Bind SSL Certificate to App Service: In the Azure Portal, navigate to your App Service and select the “SSL/TLS settings” blade.
3. Choose SSL Certificate Source: Select “Upload a certificate” and click on “Choose File.” Select the certificate file (.crt) that you uploaded to Azure Blob Storage.
4. Optional: Provide Private Key: If your certificate requires a private key, select “Include private key” and click on “Choose File.” Select the private key file (.key) that you uploaded to Azure Blob Storage.
5. Optional: Provide Intermediate Certificate Chain (if applicable): If your certificate has an intermediate certificate chain, select “Include intermediate certificates” and click on “Choose File.” Select the intermediate certificate file (.ca-bundle) that you uploaded to Azure Blob Storage.
6. Enable HTTPS Routing: Click on the “Enable HTTPS” toggle to enable HTTPS for your App Service.
7. Save Changes: Click on the “Save” button to apply the SSL certificate configuration and enable HTTPS routing.

Once the installation is complete, your App Service will start using HTTPS and visitors will see a secure connection indicated by the padlock icon in the address bar.

Method 2: Install SSL Certificate using Azure Key Vault

Prerequisites:

1. An SSL certificate: You need to have an SSL certificate purchased from a trusted Certificate Authority (CA).
2. Access to Azure Key Vault: You need to have access to an Azure Key Vault to store and manage your SSL certificate. This typically involves creating a Key Vault and uploading your certificate files (.crt and .key) to it.

Installing the SSL Certificate Using Azure Key Vault

1. Upload Certificate to Azure Key Vault: Upload the extracted certificate files (.crt and .key) to your Azure Key Vault. You can use the Azure Key Vault management portal or the Azure CLI to upload the files.
2. Create an App Service Connection to Key Vault: Create an App Service connection to your Azure Key Vault in the Azure Portal. This will allow your App Service to access the certificate stored in the Key Vault.
3. Configure App Service to Use Key Vaulta. In the Azure Portal, navigate to your App Service and select the “SSL/TLS settings” blade.b. Choose “Use Key Vault for SSL/TLS certificate” and select the Key Vault you created earlier.c. Under “Certificate name,” select the certificate name you uploaded to the Key Vault.d. Click on “Enable HTTPS” to enable HTTPS for your App Service.
4. Save Changes: Click on the “Save” button to apply the SSL certificate configuration and enable HTTPS routing.

Once the installation is complete, your App Service will start using HTTPS and visitors will see a secure connection indicated by the padlock icon in the address bar.