File extension .CER
Full Name | Developer | Category |
---|---|---|
Internet Security Certificate | N/A | Web Files |
A CER file is a certificate file type associated with the Microsoft Windows operating system. It stores data in a binary format and is used to authenticate secure websites so that users can securely transfer confidential information over the internet, such as credit card information.
The CER file extension is also referred to as " CER" or " .CERT" and is primarily generated by the Internet Security Certificate. It includes certificate information such as a public key, digital signature, and other details regarding the certificate, as well as the certificate's format, version, serial number or other essential details. It may also contain certificates from a Certification Authority (CA), which is used to verify the identity of the website. Similar file extensions include .PFX, .P12, and .PKCS12.
Usage
The CER file extension is commonly used for websites that employ the Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) protocol to communicate data securely. This type of file is used in several applications, including web browsers such as Google Chrome, Firefox, and Internet Explorer.
Related Software
CER files can be opened with various programs such as Alkonost MaxFormat Pro, Kymata Embedded Certificate Manager Viewer, and NsCertType Viewer. Some development-related software such as Visual Studio by Microsoft also allows users to open and edit these types of files.
Programs for WINDOWS system
Programs for MAC system
Programs for LINUX system
After installing the required software, the operating system will usually automatically associate an unknown file type (in this case .CER) with the new application. If this does not happen, we can help the system a bit by selecting the software for it, which it should always use to open files with the .CER extension.
When choosing the software we can select the system to use this software every time.
Remember!
Using it for the first time it is good to check whether the .CER file opened in the application can be read by us and opens in a way that allows us to use it. If everything is in order, select this option the next time you open a file with the .CER extension. However, if the file has not opened correctly, we have to look for a different software, with which we can open files with the .CER extension. Select a different software from our list and install it on your computer. After the software is installed, repeat inspection openings of a .CER file. Sometimes you have to repeat the operation several times.
Other instructions
If none of the programs listed by us to work with the .CER file has not meet your expectations, you can try searching other websites. But remember to avoid downloading programs "that can open any file". These applications not only have very limited functionality, but may also expose you to expense tens of dollars when purchasing a license.
In the vast majority of cases you will find the program dedicated to support the .CER file, or any other file format. In addition, there is a chance that it will be a free program, and its functionality (concerning the .CER file) will be extended to the maximum.
It is also good to check
- if the .CER file has no errors
- or if it has been copied (or downloaded by the browser) thoroughly
Author’s guidelines

Mr B. Adam
Author of the guidelines / Founder of FileExtension.info
New technologies enthusiast, helping to solve problems with the files.
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