When configuring CDN SSL certificates, several key points should be noted to ensure secure and efficient content delivery:
Certificate Type: Choose between DV (Domain Validation), OV (Organization Validation), or EV (Extended Validation) certificates based on security requirements. DV is sufficient for most CDN use cases.
Certificate Compatibility: Ensure the certificate is compatible with your CDN provider. Most CDNs support standard SSL formats like PEM, CRT, and KEY.
Domain Coverage: Verify the certificate covers all domains and subdomains used in the CDN. Wildcard certificates (*.
Certificate Expiry: Monitor the expiration date and renew the certificate before it expires to avoid service interruptions.
HTTPS Configuration: Properly configure HTTPS settings on the CDN, including enforcing HTTPS redirection and enabling HSTS (HTTP Strict Transport Security) for enhanced security.
Performance Impact: SSL handshakes add latency. Use modern protocols like TLS 1.3 and enable OCSP stapling to reduce handshake time.
Mixed Content Issues: Ensure all resources (images, scripts, etc.) loaded via the CDN use HTTPS to prevent mixed content warnings.
Certificate Management: Use a certificate management system or your CDN provider’s tools to automate renewal and deployment.
For example, if you’re using Tencent Cloud CDN, you can upload your SSL certificate directly in the console or use Tencent Cloud SSL Certificates Service to manage and deploy certificates seamlessly. Tencent Cloud also supports automatic renewal for certificates purchased through its platform, reducing manual maintenance.
If you need a free certificate, Tencent Cloud provides SSL certificates via partnership programs, which can be used for testing or non-commercial purposes.