How to Troubleshoot a CSR (Certificate Signing Request) Error

Author:Lars Nyström
Updated:Jun 2, 2025

If your CSR is not accepted or you encounter an error during certificate activation, follow these steps to resolve the issue:


1. Verify CSR Details

  • Ensure all required fields in the CSR are correctly filled:
    • Common Name (Domain Name)
    • Organization Name
    • Organizational Unit (OU) if applicable
    • Email Address
  • Double-check for any typos or missing information.

2. Check Domain Control

  • Verify that you have control over the domain:
    • Ensure the domain name matches exactly in the CSR and your certificate request.
    • If using a wildcard (e.g., *), ensure it is correctly configured in your DNS settings.

3. Generate a New Private Key

  • A missing or incorrect private key can cause SSL/TLS errors:
    • Use a reliable tool like OpenSSL to generate a new private key.
    • Example command:
      openssl genrsa -out privateKey.pem
      
    • Ensure the private key is securely managed and not shared publicly.

4. Sign the CSR with Your Private Key

  • Use your private key to sign the CSR:
    • Example command:
      openssl csr -in csr.pem -sign -out cert.pem
      
  • This step creates a signed certificate request that can be submitted to a Certificate Authority (CA).

5. Upload the Signed CSR to Esadax

  • Log in to your Esadax account.
  • Navigate to the SSL/TLS section and upload the signed CSR.

6. Troubleshoot Common Errors

  • If you receive an error like "CSR invalid," check for:
    • Incorrect formatting or missing fields in the CSR.
    • Mismatched domain names or typos.
    • Invalid private key usage or generation errors.

7. Contact Support if Needed

  • If issues persist, contact Esadax's support team via live chat or email.
  • Provide detailed information about the error and your CSR for further assistance.