Platform-Specific Installation Procedures

Apache web server, one of the most popular platforms, requires careful configuration file management for SSL/TLS implementation. After obtaining certificates, administrators create or modify virtual host configurations to include SSL directives. The configuration specifies paths to certificate files, private keys, and intermediate certificates. Modern Apache installations include mod_ssl for SSL/TLS support, requiring configuration of cipher suites, protocols, and security headers for optimal protection.

Nginx, known for performance and efficiency, uses a streamlined configuration approach. The server block configuration includes ssl_certificate and ssl_certificate_key directives pointing to certificate files. Nginx requires the server certificate and intermediate certificates concatenated into a single file, maintaining proper order with the server certificate first. Performance optimizations like SSL session caching and OCSP stapling enhance user experience while maintaining security.

Microsoft IIS provides a graphical interface for certificate management, appealing to administrators comfortable with Windows environments. The IIS Manager includes a Server Certificates feature for importing certificates and completing certificate requests. Binding certificates to websites involves selecting the appropriate certificate from the server's certificate store and configuring hostname bindings. IIS automatically handles many SSL/TLS optimizations, simplifying configuration for Windows administrators.

Cloud platforms and managed hosting services often provide specialized tools for SSL/TLS implementation. AWS Certificate Manager integrates with CloudFront and Elastic Load Balancers, automating provisioning and renewal. Cloudflare offers various SSL/TLS modes, from flexible SSL terminating at their edge to full strict SSL validating origin certificates. Understanding platform-specific features and limitations helps architects design secure, scalable solutions leveraging platform capabilities.