Easy Java Keytool Tutorial: Generate Your Own CSR

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Why Create a CSR File?
3. Tools for Requesting Mutual Authentication Credentials
4. Creating a CSR File Using Java Key Tool
5. Organizing Your Project and CSR Files
6. Generating the CSR File
7. Uploading the CSR File to Your Project
8. Reviewing and Submitting the CSR File
9. Visa Developer's Review and Approval Process
10. Conclusion

Introduction

In this tutorial, we will learn how to create a CSR (Certificate Signing Request) file using Java Key Tool. Before we begin, it is essential to understand why creating a CSR file is necessary for obtaining a certificate. We will also explore the tools used for requesting mutual authentication credentials and highlight the steps involved in generating and submitting a CSR file.

Why Create a CSR File?

A CSR file is required to obtain a certificate when using an API that employs two-way mutual SSL authentication. Mutual authentication ensures secure communication between the client and server, verifying the identities of both parties. By creating a CSR file, you can obtain the necessary credentials for certification and production environments, enabling you to go live with your API integration.

Tools for Requesting Mutual Authentication Credentials

There are two common tools for requesting mutual authentication credentials: Java Key Tool for Java implementations and OpenSSL for other platforms. In this tutorial, we will focus on using Java Key Tool to generate a CSR file for the certification environment. A separate tutorial will cover the use of OpenSSL.

Creating a CSR File Using Java Key Tool

To create a CSR file using Java Key Tool, follow the steps outlined below:

1. Organize your project and CSR files.
2. Open the command prompt and navigate to the project folder where you will store your CSR file.
3. Use the Java Key Tool command to generate the CSR file, entering the required information such as store password, key password, domain name, organizational unit name, organization name, locality name, state name, country name, and CSR unique ID.
4. Close the command with a quotation mark and press enter to generate the keystore file.
5. Create a new CSR file using the provided Java Key Tool command and the same passwords.
6. Confirm that the CSR file was successfully created by checking your project folder.

Organizing Your Project and CSR Files

It is crucial to stay organized when working on your project and managing your CSR files. Create separate folders for the sandbox, certification, and production environments. Within each folder, store the corresponding CSR file and keystore file. This organization will help you maintain clarity and streamline the integration process.

Generating the CSR File

Once your project and CSR files are organized, you can generate the CSR file using Java Key Tool. Enter the necessary information, such as store password, key password, domain name, organizational unit name, organization name, locality name, state name, country name, and CSR unique ID. Double-check each entry for accuracy, as any errors can result in the rejection of your CSR file.

Uploading the CSR File to Your Project

After generating the CSR file, navigate to your project dashboard and access the certification section. Click on "Start CSR Visit" and upload the CSR file using the file upload wizard. Review the information you entered, provide your phone number, and proceed to the next step.

Reviewing and Submitting the CSR File

Before submitting the CSR file, carefully review all the information you have entered. Verify the common name, organizational unit, organization name, locality, state, country, and UID. Once you submit the CSR file, it cannot be reverted, and any errors may lead to rejection. Double-check the information one final time, then submit the CSR file. You will receive confirmation on the dashboard after successful submission.

Visa Developer's Review and Approval Process

Visa Developer will review the CSR file you submitted and notify you via email once it has been approved. Once the approval is received, you are ready to proceed with integrating your API using the provided certificate.

Conclusion

Creating a CSR file using Java Key Tool is an essential step in obtaining a certificate for APIs that use two-way mutual SSL authentication. By following the steps outlined in this tutorial and ensuring the accuracy of your information, you can successfully generate and submit a CSR file for certification. Organizing your project and CSR files will help you stay organized throughout the integration process.