> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.certinext.io/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.certinext.io/documentation/certificate-lifecycle-management/ordering-a-certificate/as-a-customer/ordering-smime-certificates/phase-2-steps-via-email-and-emsign/certificate-download.md).

# Certificate Download

After the CA issues your certificate, a third email is sent to the Requestor Email ID. This email contains the link to download your certificate file.

<figure><img src="/files/zsu4z9n8kJpH8AdarRh9" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

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#### What the Email Contains

•        Subject line: ORDER #\[Order ID] - Your Certificate is ready for download Look for this subject line in your inbox.

•        Order ID: Your unique order number. For your records.

•        Ordered Date: The date and time the order was placed (UTC). For your records.

•        Product & Validity: The certificate product name and validity period. For your records.

•        Identifier: The email address secured by this certificate. Confirm this is correct.

•        Download Certificate button: An orange button linking directly to the certificate download page on the emSign portal. Click this button to download your certificate.

•        Alternative URL: A plain-text download URL below the button that you can copy and paste into a browser. Use this as a backup if the button does not work.

&#x20;

**NOTE:**  The download link in this email may expire. If you receive this email, download your certificate promptly. If the link has expired, go to CERTInext, open your order, and use the tracking URL to find a fresh download link.

#### **Downloading Your Certificate**

Clicking the Download Certificate button in the email takes you to the emSign Subscriber Portal download page. From here you can save your certificate file to your computer.

<figure><img src="/files/dm2T1w7AKrtKB5eDCzjy" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

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#### What You Will See

•        Success message: A green tick with the message: 'Thanks for completing the necessary steps. Your certificate has been issued.' This confirms the certificate is ready.

•        Order ID: Your unique order number. For reference.

•        Product & Validity: The product name and validity period. For reference.

•        Download Certificate button: An orange button that initiates the download of a ZIP archive containing your certificate. Click this button to start the download.

#### The Downloaded File

<figure><img src="/files/fELN7gVXJjE5lDjqRN66" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

&#x20;

Your browser's download manager will show a ZIP file named after your Order ID (e.g., 2287274899.zip). This archive typically contains:

•        Your certificate file (.crt or .cer format)

•        Any intermediate CA certificate files needed for the chain of trust

•        A readme or instructions file (if provided by the CA)

&#x20;

**WARNING:**  The certificate in this ZIP file must be imported against the same key-pair from which you originally generated the CSR. Do not import it with a different key. Contact your IT team if you are unsure how to import the certificate into your email application.

**NOTE:**  On most computers, downloading a ZIP file causes it to appear in the Downloads folder. Right-click the ZIP file and select 'Extract All' (Windows) or double-click to unzip (Mac) before proceeding with import.


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