Export Client Digital Certificate to PKCS#12/.PFX

Jun 9, 2025

Export Client Digital Certificate to PKCS#12/.PFX

Article Purpose: This article provides step-by-step instructions for exporting your client digital certificate from Internet Explorer in a .PFX file format. This is necessary if you wish to back up or use your certificate on another machine. This file will contain your public and private keys. If this is not the solution you are looking for, please search for your solution in the search bar above.
 

1. Open Internet Explorer and click the Tools icon in the top right corner. Select Internet Options.
   
   
2. Click the Content tab. Select the Certificates button. 
   
   
3. Select your certificate. Click Export.
   
   
4. The Certificate Export Wizard will begin. Click Next to start the process.
5. Click Yes, Export the Private Key.
   
   
6. Save the file in PFX format. This should be a default setting. If it is not, change it to the correct format. Select the box: Include All Certificates in the Certification Path if Possible.
   
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7. Create and confirm a password for your private key.
8. Create a name for your file. We recommend you name the file so it is easily identifiable and also that you store it in an easily accessible place, such as your desktop. Click Save.
9. Confirm the file details. Click Finish.
10. Your certificate is successfully saved and exported.