Generate SSL Certificate for Network Device (Switch/Appliance)

Need some help figuring out what kind of certificate to generate for some HP Procurve switches.  In the past we've just generated a self-signed certificate and were able to manage them via a browser no problem.  Now most browsers dont like these kind of certificates.

We tried generating a cert but it requires a host and domain name.  coreswitch.domain.com  
We browse to these devices via https://xxx.xxx.xxx.xxx  so the cert is valid but doesn't match the address we're browsing to and we get a certificate warning.  

Is there a way to base it off the IP address of the device?  Or do i need to create a dns entry for these devices?
MohonkAsked:
Who is Participating?

[Product update] Infrastructure Analysis Tool is now available with Business Accounts.Learn More

x
I wear a lot of hats...

"The solutions and answers provided on Experts Exchange have been extremely helpful to me over the last few years. I wear a lot of hats - Developer, Database Administrator, Help Desk, etc., so I know a lot of things but not a lot about one thing. Experts Exchange gives me answers from people who do know a lot about one thing, in a easy to use platform." -Todd S.

Dave HoweSoftware and Hardware EngineerCommented:
you can base it off the ip - just put the ip in the CN field - or if you want to get fancy, you can use a Subject Alternative Name (SAN) certificate, and put in more than one target.

assuming XCA (because I do tend to assume that :D) you would create a CA as usual, and when creating the server certificate, on the Extensions tab, click the "edit" next to Subject Alternative Name, and ADD there a DNS line (with the fully distinguished name) AND an IP line (with the IP address) - there is no limit on how many you can add, so feel free to add more, to cover more than one device.

Experts Exchange Solution brought to you by

Your issues matter to us.

Facing a tech roadblock? Get the help and guidance you need from experienced professionals who care. Ask your question anytime, anywhere, with no hassle.

Start your 7-day free trial
MohonkAuthor Commented:
Will give it a shot thanks!
Dave HoweSoftware and Hardware EngineerCommented:
cool. it isn't that hard a process; if you are doing a two level (CA and server certs) you need the CA cert in the browser to verify the server cert; XCA can do SAN as a self-signed, but as you say, browsers tend to complain a bit about those.

If you have any specific questions, go ahead and post them here :D
MohonkAuthor Commented:
That was the trick! Thanks!
It's more than this solution.Get answers and train to solve all your tech problems - anytime, anywhere.Try it for free Edge Out The Competitionfor your dream job with proven skills and certifications.Get started today Stand Outas the employee with proven skills.Start learning today for free Move Your Career Forwardwith certification training in the latest technologies.Start your trial today
SSL / HTTPS

From novice to tech pro — start learning today.