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How can I change the pass-phrase on my private key file for Apache using OpenSSL?

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For Apache mod_ssl and open_ssl

To change the pass-phrase,  you will need to specify the old pass-phrase and then specify the new pass-phrase. You can accomplish this task with the following commands:

Step 1: To change the pass-phrase, enter the following at command prompt:

$ openssl rsa -des3 -in server.key -out server.key.new

Step 2: To overwrite the new key file with the new pass-phrase, enter the following at command prompt:

$ mv server.key.new server.key

You will be asked two times for the pass-phrase. At the first prompt enter the old pass-phrase and at the second prompt enter the new pass-phrase.

Verify that the new password is being used by this command:
#openssl rsa -noout -text -in /ssl.key/server.key (ssl.key is the full directory)

If you have any questions or concerns please contact the Entrust Certificate Services Support department for further assistance:

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