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.

Watch the Video here: