How to Convert DER to PEM

When it comes to SSL certificate files, there are a variety of file formats available, each with its particular uses and purposes. For instance, .cer, .jks, .pfx, .der, .p12, .crt, .p7b, and .pem files are all commonly used SSL certificate file formats. However, when it comes to converting these files, the process can be a bit tricky, especially for those who are not familiar with the process. In this article, we will look at how to convert a DER file to a PEM file, using various OpenSSL commands.

What is a DER file?

Before we dive into the conversion process, it’s essential to understand what a DER file is and how it differs from other SSL certificate file formats. A DER file is a binary format used to encode data structures, such as public and private keys, certificates, and certificate revocation lists. It is an ASCII format that is often used for exporting and importing SSL certificates between different software platforms.

What is a PEM file?

A PEM file, on the other hand, is a Base64 encoded ASCII format used to encode the same data structures as a DER file. However, it is a more common SSL certificate file format and is often used for storing SSL certificates on web servers.

Converting a DER file to a PEM file

To convert a DER file to a PEM file, you will need to use the OpenSSL command-line tool. Below are the steps to follow:

1. Open up a terminal window and navigate to the directory where the DER file is located.

2. Type the following command to convert the DER file to a PEM file:

   openssl x509 -inform der -in certificate.der -out certificate.pem

   Replace “certificate.der” with the name of the DER file you want to convert and “certificate.pem” with the name of the new PEM file you want to create.

3. Press Enter, and the DER file will be converted to a PEM file.

Verifying the Conversion

To verify that the conversion was successful, you can use the following command to display the contents of the PEM file:

openssl x509 -in certificate.pem -text -noout

This command will display information about the SSL certificate, such as the issuer, the subject, and the validity period.

Why Convert DER to PEM?

Now that we have seen how to convert a DER file to a PEM file let’s look at why you would want to do so.

Server Compatibility

One of the main reasons for converting a DER file to a PEM file is to ensure compatibility with the web server you are using. Not all web servers support all SSL certificate file formats. For instance, if you are using Apache web server, you will need to convert your SSL certificate to a PEM file format before installing it.

Exporting Certificates

Another reason why you may want to convert a DER file to a PEM file is for exporting SSL certificates. PEM files are more commonly used and recognized, making them easier to share across different platforms.

Increased Security

Finally, converting a DER file to a PEM file can increase security. PEM files are ASCII files, making them easier to view and edit. However, they are also easier to encrypt, providing an extra layer of security when storing the SSL certificate.

FAQs – Convert Key Der to Pem

What is a key der file?

A key der file is an encoded file format that contains a private key. It is often used to secure communication between a server and a client.

A pem file is a file format that contains a public key or a certificate. It is often used to establish secure communication between different servers.

How can I convert a key der file to a pem file?

To convert a key der file to a pem file, you can use the OpenSSL command-line tool. First, open the terminal or command prompt on your computer. Then, navigate to the directory where your key der file is saved. Finally, use the following command to convert the key der file to a pem file:

openssl rsa -inform DER -in your_key.der -outform PEM -out your_key.pem

Replace “your_key” with the name of your key file. Once the command has completed, your key will be converted to a pem file format.

Can I convert a key der file to a pem file without using OpenSSL?

It is possible to convert a key der file to a pem file without using OpenSSL, but it may be more difficult and time-consuming. In general, using OpenSSL is the easiest and most reliable way to make this conversion.

Do I need to have any specific software installed on my computer to convert a key der file to a pem file?

Yes, you will need to have OpenSSL installed on your computer in order to convert a key der file to a pem file. If you do not already have OpenSSL installed, you can download it for free from the official OpenSSL website.

What should I do if I encounter any problems when trying to convert a key der file to a pem file?

If you encounter any problems when trying to convert a key der file to a pem file, you can try troubleshooting the issue by reviewing the OpenSSL documentation or seeking help from an online community or support forum. Additionally, you may want to double-check that you have all the necessary software installed and that you are using the correct command syntax when running the conversion command.