Knowledge Base

Completing the Certificate Subscriber Agreement (CSA) for Your SSL Request

Learn what the Certificate Subscriber Agreement (CSA) is, why it’s required, and how to complete the CSA step using the code and link sent by the Certificate Authority after placing your SSL order.

1. What Is a Certificate Subscriber Agreement (CSA)?

A Certificate Subscriber Agreement (CSA) is a mandatory agreement between you (the domain owner) and the Certificate Authority (CA) that issues your SSL certificate. It outlines the responsibilities of both sides — mainly:

• You confirm that you own or control the domain.
• You agree to provide accurate information.
• You agree to use the certificate properly and securely.
• The CA explains what they validate and what they guarantee.

It’s essentially the terms you must accept before an SSL certificate can be issued.

2. Receive the CSA Email from the Certificate Authority

Right after you place your SSL certificate order, the Certificate Authority (CA) sends an email to the requester (using the requester’s official email account). This email contains two important things:

1. Your unique CSA code
2. A secure link to open the Certificate Subscriber Agreement (CSA)

This email is automatically generated by the CA and is required to continue the SSL issuance process. You must use the same CSA code from the email to confirm your agreement.

3. How to Complete the CSA Step Using the Code and Link Sent by the Certificate Authority?

1. Check your email for the message sent by the Certificate Authority.

• It includes your CSA code and the CSA agreement link.

2. Copy the CSA code from the email.
3. Click the agreement link provided in the same email.
4. Paste the CSA code into the required field on the CA’s page to confirm your acceptance.
5. Proceed to the remaining validation stages (DNS, email, or HTTP validation) to complete your SSL request.