How to Convert an Exported PFX File to PVK & SPC Files?

Exporting a PFX file from a certificate store is a common task when dealing with SSL certificates. However, there are times when you need to convert the PFX file into PVK and SPC files for various purposes. This could include scenarios where you need to sign a code, authenticate a driver or authenticate a file for distribution. Although the process might sound complex, it's relatively easy with the right tools and knowledge.

In this blog post, we'll walk you through the steps involved in converting an exported PFX file to PVK and SPC files. So, whether you're a developer or IT professional, if you still have very less or no idea about how to convert an Exported PFX File to SPC File or how to convert an Exported PFX File to PVK File, stay tuned for a comprehensive guide on how to get the job done. But first, let’s find out more about the PFX, PVK, and SPC files.

PFX, PVK, and SPC Files – Definitions

PFX, PVK, and SPC are file formats commonly used in digital certificate management. Here's a brief description of each file format:

• PFX (Personal Information Exchange) File:

A PFX file is a binary file format that stores a digital certificate and its corresponding private key in a single encrypted file. PFX files are commonly used to transfer or back up digital certificates from one system to another or to import/export digital certificates between different applications.

• PVK (Private Key) File:

A PVK file is a binary file format containing only a digital certificate's private key portion. The private key encrypts and decrypts data transmitted over a secure channel and is kept secret to ensure data confidentiality. PVK files are often used to sign code, authenticate software publishers, and secure server communication.

• SPC (Software Publisher Certificate) File:

An SPC file is a binary format containing a digital certificate for code signing. SPC files authenticate software publishers and verify that the installed software is legitimate and has not been tampered with. SPC files are often used in conjunction with PVK files to sign code and verify the authenticity of the software.

Why Do You Need to Convert the PFX File?

A PFX (Personal Information Exchange) file is a binary format that stores a private key, a public key, and possibly additional certificates. It is often used for secure data exchange, such as SSL/TLS certificates, code signing certificates, or email encryption.

There are a few reasons why you might need to convert a PFX file:

• Cross-platform compatibility: PFX files are in a Windows-specific format and may not be compatible with other platforms or software. You may need to convert the PFX file to a different format if you need to use the certificate on a different operating system or with different software.
• Certificate management: PFX files can contain multiple certificates, and it can be difficult to manage and extract individual certificates from a PFX file. Converting the PFX file to a different format, such as PEM or DER, can make managing and using individual certificates easier.
• Certificate installation: Different software or platforms may have different requirements for certificate installation, such as file format or key length. Converting the PFX file to a different format may be necessary to ensure the certificate is installed correctly.

How to Convert an Exported PFX File - Steps Involved

A PFX or Personal Information Exchange file is a digital certificate containing both a private and public key. In some cases, converting a PFX file to a PVK and SPC file may be necessary. Here are the steps involved in doing so:

• Step 1: Install OpenSSL

To begin, you must install OpenSSL on your computer. This free, open-source software package creates and manages digital certificates. You can download OpenSSL from the official website and install it on your computer.

• Step 2: Open the Command Prompt

Once OpenSSL is installed, open the command prompt on your computer. This can be done by pressing the Windows key + R and then typing "cmd" in the Run dialog box.

• Step 3: Navigate to the OpenSSL Bin Folder

In the command prompt, navigate to the OpenSSL bin folder by typing "cd C:\OpenSSL-Win64\bin" (or the location where OpenSSL is installed) and press Enter.

• Step 4: Convert PFX to PEM

Type in the following command to convert the PFX file to a PEM file:

openssl pkcs12 -in yourPFXfile.pfx -out yourPEMfile.pem -nodes

Replace "yourPFXfile.pfx" with the name of your PFX file and "yourPEMfile.pem" with the name you wish to give to the resulting PEM file.

• Step 5: Convert PEM to PVK

Next, you will have to convert the PEM file to a PVK file. To do this, type in the following command:

openssl rsa -in yourPEMfile.pem -out yourPVKfile.pvk

Replace "yourPEMfile.pem" with the name of the PEM file you created in Step 4 and "yourPVKfile.pvk" with the name you wish to give to the resulting PVK file.

• Step 6: Convert PEM to SPC

Finally, you must convert the PEM file to an SPC file. Type in the following command:

openssl crl2pkcs7 -nocrl -certfile yourPEMfile.pem -out yourSPCfile.spc -certfile CAcert.pem

Replace "yourPEMfile.pem" with the name of the PEM file you created in Step 4, "yourSPCfile.spc" with the name you wish to give to the resulting SPC file, and "CAcert.pem" with the name of the certificate authority (CA) certificate.

• Step 7: Verify the Files

Once the conversion is complete, verify that the PVK and SPC files are working correctly. You can do this by importing them into the appropriate software, such as Microsoft Visual Studio, and checking to see if they are recognized and valid.

Basically, to convert a PFX file to a PVK and SPC file, you need to use OpenSSL and follow these steps: open the command prompt, navigate to the OpenSSL bin folder, convert the PFX file to a PEM file, convert the PEM file to a PVK file, and convert the PEM file to an SPC file. Finally, verify that the resulting files are working correctly.

Conclusion

Converting an exported PFX file to PVK and SPC files can seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools and knowledge, it can be easily accomplished. By following the steps outlined in this blog, you can successfully convert your PFX file and use it to sign your code or authenticate your website. Remember always to keep your private keys secure and protect your digital assets. With these tips and tricks, you can confidently navigate the world of digital security and ensure the safety of your online presence.