CER vs CRT Files: How To Convert Files from CRT to CER and CER to CRT

Know the Technical Difference Between CER and CRT

Are you tangled up in the web of SSL/TLS certificate formats and extensions? The confusion is evident due to several extensions available in the market, like CRT, CER, DER, P12, P7B, P7S, PFX, and PEM. The overwhelming array of options can leave even the most seasoned tech enthusiasts pulling at their hair in frustration. But guess what? You’re not alone! Navigating through the maze of SSL certificates is a rite of passage for cybersecurity professionals. We understand the struggle and want to make this journey as chaotic as possible for you.

This article will cover the essential differences between CER and CRT files. Goodbye to uncertainty as we embark on this enlightening journey together. You’ll be equipped with the knowledge to make informed decisions and ensure smooth SSL certificate management. Let’s unravel the SSL/TLS certificate problem!

See Also: Comodo PositiveSSL vs RapidSSL Certificate

Need to Understand the CER and CRT files:

CER is an abbreviation for Certificate files, generally used to store X.509 digital certificates. These certificates are critical for protecting website communications and confirming the legitimacy of online organizations. ON THE OTHER HAND, a CRT file, which stands for Certificate file, often contains encoded public cryptographic keys used for data encryption, particularly in the context of the Transport Layer Security (TLS) or Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) security protocols.

CRT files frequently carry public keys in PEM (Privacy-Enhanced Mail) or DER (Distinguished Encoding Rules) forms, whereas CER files store certificate information in binary or Base64-encoded formats. It is worth noting that CER files frequently contain extensions such as .cer, .crt, .der, or .p7b, while CRT files typically have extensions such as .crt, .pem, or .cer. There are other significant factors upon which the CER vs. CRT can be justified. Let us come across each one of them ahead.

CER vs. CRT Files: Fundamental Differences

A CER file is a digital certificate file used to verify the authenticity of websites, software, or persons. It is critical in guaranteeing safe internet communication. A CER file contains a digital certificate with a public encryption key, information to identify the certificate’s owner, the certificate authority’s signing output, and certificate-related extra data. 

A CRT file, which stands for Certificate File, is a digital document that contains encrypted data that allows for safe communication between parties. It’s utilized in various security protocols, including SSL/TLS website encryption. CRT files provide vital information, such as the public key for the website and other certificate data. They maintain the integrity and secrecy of online transactions by providing authentication and encryption, protecting sensitive information.

The disparity between CER and CRT may seem like an enigma covered in a problem. But fear not, it’s not Schrödinger’s cat puzzling us here. The truth is, at their core, CER and CRT share the same DNA – both belong to the Base64 (ASCII) format for SSL certificates. However, the real difference lies in their filename extensions, making it a crucial factor when dealing with servers that might have specific requirements. The Unix operating system generation commonly uses the CER and CRT extensions to encode certificates in binary DER and ASCII PEM forms.

Do you need help with the technicalities? Let’s simplify it. For a crystal straightforward approach to technicalities, we have got a differentiating table for you below.

What is the Difference Between CER and CRT Files?

CER files and CRT files serve different functions in the digital world. The Certificate file, abbreviated as CER, serves as a primary storage format for X.509 digital certificates. These certificates are crucial for securing website communications and verifying the authenticity of online entities. On the other hand, a Certificate file, referred to as a CRT file, generally contains encoded public cryptographic keys used for data encryption, particularly in the context of the Transport Layer Security (TLS) or Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) security protocols.

While CER files store certificate information in binary or Base64-encoded formats, CRT files often hold public keys in PEM (Privacy-Enhanced Mail) or DER (Distinguished Encoding Rules) formats. It is worth stating that CER files regularly possess extensions including .cer, .crt, .der, or .p7b, whereas CRT files generally have extensions like .crt, .pem, or .cer.

CER vs. CRT Files: Technical Differences

Features	CER Files	CRT Files
Format	Binary	Binary
Purpose	Contains a public key for digital certificates	Contains both the public key and private key for digital certificates
Encryption	No private key is included; it only contains the public key	Includes both public and private keys for encryption and decryption
Usage	Used for verifying the authenticity and integrity of a digital certificate	Used for secure communication, authentication, and encryption
Compatibility	Widely supported by various operating systems and applications	Widely supported by various operating systems and applications
File Size	Generally smaller compared to CRT files	Generally larger due to the inclusion of private key
Security	Less sensitive as it only contains public key information	More sensitive as it includes both public and private keys
Backup and Restore	Easier to backup and restore as it only contains the public key	Requires extra precautions and security measures due to the inclusion of private key
Import and Export	No private key is included, only contains the public key	Can be exported and shared for various purposes, such as installing SSL/TLS certificates
Common Use Cases	No private key is included, only contains the public key	SSL/TLS certificate installation, server authentication, secure communication

Distinctive Preferences of Various Servers

It’s essential to recognize that different servers have varying preferences regarding certificate formats and extensions. With many servers, each has its unique requirements, which can be a challenge. The good news is that some servers are flexible and accept multiple certificate file formats, alleviating the burden for users.

If your server could be more accommodating, you might need to convert a certificate to a different file type. Our expertise will guide you through the conversion process. We’ll ensure a seamless transition from one format to another. With this newfound knowledge, you’ll be well-equipped to handle SSL certificate installations.

Exploring X.509 Certificate Filename Extensions

You must know that X.509 certificates are the backbone of digital authentication for SSL certificates. However, not all certificates are created equal, as they come in various formats and filename extensions. Let’s take a closer look at the most common extensions:

• .cer, .crt, and .der:

Typically, these extensions house certificates in binary DER form, although Base64-encoded certificates (like .pem) are also prevalent.

• .pem: 

This extension represents a Privacy-enhanced Electronic Mail certificate, encoded in Base64 DER format, enclosed between “—–BEGIN CERTIFICATE—–“ and “—–END CERTIFICATE—–.”

• .pfx: 

The predecessor of PKCS#12, .pfx files, usually holds data in PKCS#12 format, commonly generated in IIS.

• .p7b and .p7c: 

These extensions contain PKCS#7 SignedData structures without data, solely consisting of the certificate(s) or CRL(s).

• .p12: 

PKCS#12 files are capable of holding both certificate(s) (public) and private keys (password protected).

Effortless Conversion of CER to CRT Files Using OpenSSL

You have various options when converting digital certificate files from .cer to .crt extensions. Here, we’ll help you use OpenSSL commands, making it a breeze to accomplish.

Follow these steps and remember to specify the full file path:

• Open your terminal or command prompt.

• Utilize the following command:

openssl x509 -inform PEM -in <filepath>/certificate.cert -out certificate.crt

By executing the above command, OpenSSL will work magic. It will convert your .cer file to the desired .crt format. And there you have it! A simple and effective way to carry out the conversion with ease.

QUICK NOTE: This is just one of several methods available. Depending on your specific requirements, you may also explore other approaches.

What if the tables are turned, and you need to convert a CRT file to CER? We’ve also got that covered! The subsequent section will delve into the steps for this conversion.

How to Save your File in the .cer Format?: Converting CRT to CER

If you need to switch between CER and CRT file extensions, fret not, as they are practically interchangeable. Converting your certificate from .CRT to .CER is easy. Follow these steps:

If you need to convert a CRT file to a CER file, you can follow the below steps:

• To begin, click twice on your website.crt file to launch it in the certificate display.
• Press the “Details” tab and choose “Copy to file.”

• In the certificate export wizard prompt, select “Next.”

• Pick “Base-64 encoded X.509 (.CER)” from the options, and then press “Next.”

• Then, go to where you are willing to store your converted file and enter the desired filename.
• Lastly, select the “Next” button to save the file, and you’re done!

With these easy steps, you can effortlessly convert your SSL certificate .CRT to .CER, making it compatible with servers that require the latter extension. Enjoy a seamless SSL certificate management experience!

Final Words on CER vs. CRT Files

The key takeaway is that while they may appear similar, the filename extensions are pivotal in ensuring seamless certificate integration with servers. So, next time you encounter the CER vs. CRT issue, remember that the distinction lies in their respective file extensions, and with this newfound knowledge, you’ll navigate the SSL certificates with confidence and clarity.