How to Generate a CSR (Certificate Signing Request) in DirectAdmin

A Certificate Signing Request (CSR) is required when you want to install an SSL certificate for your domain. It contains your domain details and a public key that Certificate Authorities (CAs) use to issue your SSL certificate.

This guide shows you how to generate a CSR easily in DirectAdmin.

What is a CSR?

A CSR includes important information such as:

  • Domain name (Common Name)

  • Company or organization name

  • Location (City, State, Country)

  • Email address

  • Public key

Once generated, you submit the CSR to an SSL provider (e.g., Let’s Encrypt, Sectigo, etc.) to obtain your SSL certificate.

Step-by-Step: Generate CSR in DirectAdmin

1. Log in to DirectAdmin

Access your control panel:

http://yourdomain.com:2222

2. Navigate to SSL Certificates

Go to:
Account Manager → SSL Certificates

3. Select “Create A Certificate Request”

Choose:
Create A Certificate Request

4. Fill in CSR Details

You’ll be required to enter the following:

  • Common Name (Domain):

yourdomain.com

For wildcard SSL:

*.yourdomain.com

  • Key Size:
    Recommended:     2048 or 4096

  • Country Code:
    Example: NG (Nigeria)

  • State/Province:
    Your state (e.g., Lagos)

  • City:
    Your city

  • Company Name:
    Your business or personal name

  • Company Division:
    Optional (e.g., IT Department)

  • Email Address:
    Your valid email

  • Passphrase:
    Optional (can be left blank)

5. Click “Save”

After submitting:

  • DirectAdmin will generate:

    • CSR Code

    • Private Key

Important: Save Your Private Key

  • The Private Key is critical

  • Do NOT share it with anyone

  • You’ll need it when installing your SSL certificate

What Happens Next?

  1. Copy the CSR code

  2. Submit it to your SSL provider

  3. Receive your SSL certificate files:

    • Certificate (CRT)

    • CA Bundle (if provided)

Installing the SSL Certificate

Once you receive your SSL certificate:

  1. Go back to:
    SSL Certificates

  2. Select:
    Paste a pre-generated certificate and key

  3. Paste:

    • Private Key

    • Certificate (CRT)

    • CA Bundle

  4. Click Save

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Wrong domain in CSR

  • Ensure the Common Name matches your domain exactly

Losing Private Key

  • Without it, SSL installation will fail

Using non-wildcard CSR for subdomains

  • Use:

*.yourdomain.com

if you want to cover all subdomains

Best Practices

  • Always use 2048-bit or higher key size

  • Generate a new CSR for each SSL request

  • Keep your private key secure

  • Use wildcard SSL for multiple subdomains

Generating a CSR in DirectAdmin is a simple but crucial step in securing your website with SSL. With the correct details and proper handling of your private key, you can quickly obtain and install your SSL certificate.