SSL updates and their impact on site availability
1) Why SSL needs to be updated
The SSL certificate has a limited validity period - usually from 90 days (Let's Encrypt) to 1-2 years (EV and OV certificates). At the end of the term, it becomes invalid, and browsers block access to the site, marking the connection as insecure.
Reasons for regular updates:
2) How the SSL update affects site availability
If the update is correct, the certificate is replaced in advance, the site continues to work without downtime.
If the certificate is expired, browsers block access, users see a warning about an insecure connection, which leads to loss of traffic and trust.
In case of installation errors - there may be interruptions if the certificate is installed incorrectly or intermediate certificates (CA Bundle) are not updated.
When changing the algorithm or version of TLS, old devices and browsers may lose compatibility, which will reduce accessibility for part of the audience.
3) Main risks when updating SSL
Site downtime - due to late installation or incorrect server configuration.
Incompatibility with game providers - if APIs or integrations require certain TLS settings.
Caching issues - CDNs or browsers may temporarily store old certificates.
The human factor is errors during manual extension and installation.
4) How to avoid upgrade failures
1. Renew the certificate in advance - at least 2-3 weeks before expiration.
2. Use automatic renewal - via Certbot or built-in hosting mechanisms.
3. Check TLS compatibility - test the site on different devices and browsers.
4. Conduct off-peak updates to minimize the impact on players.
5. Check intermediate certificates - without them, the site may not be available to some users.
6. Configure SSL monitoring - notifications about the imminent expiration of the certificate.
5) How reliable online casinos work
Have a standby server with an up-to-date certificate for instant switching (failover).
Store private keys in secure HSM modules.
Use multiple certificates (SANs) for all domains and subdomains to avoid breaking integrations.
Automatic deployment systems (CI/CD) are used to securely install updates.
Conclusion:
The SSL certificate has a limited validity period - usually from 90 days (Let's Encrypt) to 1-2 years (EV and OV certificates). At the end of the term, it becomes invalid, and browsers block access to the site, marking the connection as insecure.
Reasons for regular updates:
- Renewal of certificate validity.
- Transition to stronger encryption algorithms.
- Change owner data (for example, when rebranding a casino).
- Replacement of the certificate in case of compromise of the private key.
2) How the SSL update affects site availability
If the update is correct, the certificate is replaced in advance, the site continues to work without downtime.
If the certificate is expired, browsers block access, users see a warning about an insecure connection, which leads to loss of traffic and trust.
In case of installation errors - there may be interruptions if the certificate is installed incorrectly or intermediate certificates (CA Bundle) are not updated.
When changing the algorithm or version of TLS, old devices and browsers may lose compatibility, which will reduce accessibility for part of the audience.
3) Main risks when updating SSL
Site downtime - due to late installation or incorrect server configuration.
Incompatibility with game providers - if APIs or integrations require certain TLS settings.
Caching issues - CDNs or browsers may temporarily store old certificates.
The human factor is errors during manual extension and installation.
4) How to avoid upgrade failures
1. Renew the certificate in advance - at least 2-3 weeks before expiration.
2. Use automatic renewal - via Certbot or built-in hosting mechanisms.
3. Check TLS compatibility - test the site on different devices and browsers.
4. Conduct off-peak updates to minimize the impact on players.
5. Check intermediate certificates - without them, the site may not be available to some users.
6. Configure SSL monitoring - notifications about the imminent expiration of the certificate.
5) How reliable online casinos work
Have a standby server with an up-to-date certificate for instant switching (failover).
Store private keys in secure HSM modules.
Use multiple certificates (SANs) for all domains and subdomains to avoid breaking integrations.
Automatic deployment systems (CI/CD) are used to securely install updates.
Conclusion:
- Updating the SSL certificate directly affects the availability of the online casino site. If the process is organized correctly, it passes unnoticed by users, but in case of delay or errors, it leads to a complete blocking of access. The key to stable operation is automation, testing and early renewal of certificates.
