ACME: Automating SSL/TLS Certificate Management

What is ACME?

ACME (Automated Certificate Management Environment) is a protocol that changes the way SSL/TLS certificates are obtained, renewed, and managed.

Why Choose ACME?

  • Quick and Automatic: Obtain and renew certificates effortlessly.
  • Zero Downtime: Keep your website secure 24/7.
  • Cost-Effective: Save on labor and operational costs.
  • Scalable: Ideal for both small and large-scale operations.

How Does ACME Work?

  1. Initialization: The ACME client software on your server starts the process by communicating with the ACME server.
  2. Domain Validation: Verify your domain ownership via a simple challenge, either by updating a DNS record or placing a file on your server (Automatically done by Sectigo).
  3. Certificate Issuance: Receive your SSL/TLS certificate automatically upon successful validation.
  4. Auto-Renewal: Set it and forget it—your certificates will renew automatically, ensuring uninterrupted service.

The Challenges ACME Addresses

With Google’s recent policy to limit TLS certificate validity to 90 days by 2024, the manual management of certificates has become increasingly unsustainable. ACME is here to offer an efficient alternative.

  • Human Errors: Eliminate risks associated with missed renewals or expired certificates.
  • Cost: Save on the need for specialized knowledge and resources.
  • Scalability: Easily manage certificates across multiple services.

If you are ready to implement ACME, continue reading here: Getting Started with ACME