> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://ghoulsec.gitbook.io/ghoulsec-vault/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://ghoulsec.gitbook.io/ghoulsec-vault/cyber-security-base/ssl-handbook/installing-openssl.md).

# Installing OpenSSL

This is the detailed walkthrough how to install OpenSSL into you web server

**OpenSSL** is a widely used open-source software library that provides cryptographic functions to secure communications over computer networks. It is primarily used for implementing the **Secure Sockets Layer (SSL)** and **Transport Layer Security (TLS)** protocols, which are the basis for securing HTTPS (the secure version of HTTP) and other encrypted network protocols.\\

#### Installing OpenSSL into Windows based machines : 

* **Download Precompiled Binaries**:

  * Go to the **OpenSSL for Windows** download page provided by Shining Light Productions.
  * Choose the appropriate version:
    * **Win64 OpenSSL** (for 64-bit Windows)

    * **Win32 OpenSSL** (for 32-bit Windows)

  > **Note**: If you are unsure, most modern Windows systems are 64-bit, so choose **Win64**.
* **Install Visual C++ Redistributable** (if required):
  * Before installing OpenSSL, ensure you have the **Visual C++ Redistributable** installed. Most Windows systems already have it, but if you encounter any issues, you can install it from the link provided.
* **Run the OpenSSL Installer**:
  * Run the downloaded installer (e.g., `Win64OpenSSL-<version>.exe`).
  * Follow the installation steps:
    * Accept the license agreement.
    * Choose the destination folder (default is `C:\Program Files\OpenSSL-Win64`).
    * Select **"Copy OpenSSL DLLs to: The Windows system directory"**.
* **Set Up Environment Variables**:
  * To use OpenSSL from the command line, add it to your system's `PATH`:
    * Right-click on **This PC** or **My Computer** and go to **Properties**.
    * Click on **Advanced system settings** > **Environment Variables**.
    * Under **System variables**, find `Path`, select it, and click **Edit**.
    * Add the path to your OpenSSL `bin` directory (e.g., `C:\Program Files\OpenSSL-Win64\bin`).
* **Verify the Installation**:
  * Open a new Command Prompt window and run:

    ```cmd
    cmdCopy codeopenssl version
    ```
  * You should see the installed version of OpenSSL.

***

#### Installing OpenSSL in Linux  :&#x20;

```
# sudo apt update
# sudo apt install openssl
```