CSR File Extension

What is CSR file?

CSR files are used as a part of certificate signing request procedure.

What kind of data do CSR files hold?

CSR files store encoded ID of Certificate Authority that issues the certificate along with additional information including:

• county code,
• address,
• domain, email,
• public key.

The data is store in an encrypted format.

What are CSR files used for?

CSR files are generated using a public and private key pair. Private key should be at least 2048 bit longs for security reasons. It is also important that the key be safely and securely stored as it is not possible to create a duplicate key should it become lost or destroyed. Without the key, the certificate cannot be used. Generated CSR files are used for authenticating web services, encrypting emails, etc. CSR files are generated using dedicated Linux or Windows tools or third-party applications. CSR files can be viewed using said tools.

Programs which support CSR file extension

The following list contains programs grouped by 3 operating systems that support CSR files. Files with CSR suffix can be copied to any mobile device or system platform, but it may not be possible to open them properly on target system.

Updated: 01/23/2023

How to open file with CSR extension?

Being unable to open files with CSR extension can be have various origins. What is important, all common issues related to files with CSR extension can be resolved by the users themselves. The process is quick and doesn’t involve an IT expert. The list below will guide you through the process of addressing the encountered problem.

Step 1. Install Microsoft IIS software

The most common reason for such problems is the lack of proper applications that supports CSR files installed on the system. This issue can be addressed by downloading and installing Microsoft IIS or different compatible program, such as OpenSSL. On the top of the page a list that contains all programs grouped based on operating systems supported can be found. If you want to download Microsoft IIS installer in the most secured manner, we suggest you visit Microsoft Corporation website and download from their official repositories.

Step 2. Update Microsoft IIS to the latest version

If the problems with opening CSR files still occur even after installing Microsoft IIS, it is possible that you have an outdated version of the software. Check the developer’s website whether a newer version of Microsoft IIS is available. It may also happen that software creators by updating their applications add compatibility with other, newer file formats. If you have an older version of Microsoft IIS installed, it may not support CSR format. The latest version of Microsoft IIS should support all file formats that where compatible with older versions of the software.

Step 3. Associate Certificate Signing Request Format files with Microsoft IIS

After installing Microsoft IIS (the most recent version) make sure that it is set as the default application to open CSR files. The method is quite simple and varies little across operating systems.

Selecting the first-choice application in Windows

• Right-click the CSR file and choose Open with option
• Next, select the Choose another app option and then using More apps open the list of available applications
• To finalize the process, select Look for another app on this PC entry and using the file explorer select the Microsoft IIS installation folder. Confirm by checking Always use this app to open CSR files box and clicking OK button.

Selecting the first-choice application in Mac OS

• From the drop-down menu, accessed by clicking the file with CSR extension, select Information
• Proceed to the Open with section. If its closed, click the title to access available options
• From the list choose the appropriate program and confirm by clicking Change for all....
• A message window should appear informing that This change will be applied to all files with CSR extension. By clicking Continue you confirm your selection.

Step 4. Check the CSR for errors

Should the problem still occur after following steps 1-3, check if the CSR file is valid. It is probable that the file is corrupted and thus cannot be accessed.

1. Check the CSR file for viruses or malware

If the file is infected, the malware that resides in the CSR file hinders attempts to open it. Scan the CSR file as well as your computer for malware or viruses. CSR file is infected with malware? Follow the steps suggested by your antivirus software.

2. Verify that the CSR file’s structure is intact

Did you receive the CSR file in question from a different person? Ask him/her to send it one more time. It is possible that the file has not been properly copied to a data storage and is incomplete and therefore cannot be opened. If the CSR file has been downloaded from the internet only partially, try to redownload it.

3. Verify whether your account has administrative rights

Some files require elevated access rights to open them. Log in using an administrative account and see If this solves the problem.

4. Check whether your system can handle Microsoft IIS

The operating systems may note enough free resources to run the application that support CSR files. Close all running programs and try opening the CSR file.

5. Check if you have the latest updates to the operating system and drivers

Up-to-date system and drivers not only makes your computer more secure, but also may solve problems with Certificate Signing Request Format file. Outdated drivers or software may have caused the inability to use a peripheral device needed to handle CSR files.

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