🔐 How to Export a .PFX File from IIS (All Versions)

Exporting a .pfx file from IIS allows you to back up or move an SSL certificate (including its private key) to another server or service.

This guide covers the steps to export a .pfx certificate file in all versions of IIS (IIS 7, 8, 10, and above) using the Microsoft Management Console (MMC).

📤 Step-by-Step Guide to Export .PFX File

🖥️ On the Source Server:

1. Launch MMC (Microsoft Management Console):

   • Press Windows + R, type mmc, and press Enter.

2. Add the Certificates Snap-In:

   • Go to File > Add/Remove Snap-in.

   • Select Certificates, then click Add.

   • Choose Computer Account, click Next.

   • Select Local Computer, then click Finish and OK.

3. Navigate to Personal Certificates:

   • In the left pane, expand:

     Certificates (Local Computer) > Personal > Certificates
     

4. Find Your SSL Certificate:

   • Look for the certificate you want to export (typically listed by its Common Name).

5. Start the Export Wizard:

   • Right-click the certificate > All Tasks > Export.

   • Click Next in the Certificate Export Wizard.

6. Export Private Key:

   • Choose Yes, export the private key, then click Next.

7. Export Format:

   • Ensure .PFX (Personal Information Exchange) is selected.

   • Leave all defaults checked:

     • Include all certificates in the certification path

     • Export all extended properties

8. Set a Password:

   • Enter and confirm a password to protect the .pfx file. Click Next.

9. Save the File:

   • Browse to a location to save the .pfx file.

   • Name the file (e.g., mycert.pfx) and click Save, then Next.

10. Complete the Export:

    • Click Finish.

    • You should see a message that the export was successful.

🔁 What’s Inside a .PFX File?

A .pfx (Personal Information Exchange) file contains:

• The SSL certificate

• Its private key

• The certificate chain (intermediate and root certificates)

This format is ideal when moving the certificate to another IIS server or importing into third-party platforms like Azure, AWS, or cPanel.

🧠 Need Help?

If you're unsure which certificate to export or face any issues, please contact Softsys Hosting Support. We’re here to help with SSL management and secure migrations.

💰 Softsys Hosting SSL Certificates

Looking for a new SSL certificate? Softsys Hosting offers a wide range of SSL certificates at discounted prices, including:

• DV (Domain Validated)

• OV (Organization Validated)

• EV (Extended Validation)

• Wildcard & Multi-Domain options

Visit our website or contact our team to find the right certificate for your needs.