How to Issue a Self-Signed Certificate From the NI Web Server for HTTPS

Updated Sep 22, 2023

Environment

Software

  • LabVIEW
  • SystemLink Server

Encryption of communication content using HTTPS is becoming indispensable from the viewpoint of security. A certificate is required for HTTPS communication, but when creating and testing programs such as Web Applications and Web Services that exchange data between servers and clients, it is possible to test HTTPS communication using a self-signed certificate that can be created free of charge. This provides convenience during testing, but should not be used in final production environments.

Here, we will confirm how to enable HTTPS communication on NI Web Server, issue a self-signed certificate, and perform HTTPS communication using the self-signed certificate from the client PC.

Configuring Self-Signed Certificates

To configure the server PC to accept HTTPS communication, start the NI Web server configuration and open the HTTPS tab. Select Use self-signed certificate in HTTPS settings . Here, add the computer name, domain name, and IP that specify the server PC in the network to the list. Then click Generate and install to install the certificate.

 
configure HTTPS self signed cert


A self-signed certificate file is required for HTTPS communication with the server from the client. This is done by exporting the root certificate from the View Certificate part of the NI Web Server configuration.
export root certificate for self signed HTTPS cert

When using the self-signed certificate created in the above procedure for HTTPS communication from the client PC, specify the file path of the self-signed certificate as shown below and send the request. In this example, the tag related to localhost.Health.Memory. Is fetched from the tags hosted on SystemLink Server. This VI can be downloaded from Attachment.
LabVIEW https example

Attachments

HTTPSwSelfSignedCer.vi

Related Links

Other Support Options

Ask the NI Community

Collaborate with other users in our discussion forums



Request Support from an Engineer

A valid service agreement or active software subscription may be required, and support options vary by country.