CRL File Extension

What is CRL file?

Files with the CRL extension are utilized in digital certificate technology.

What do CRL files contain?

The content of files with the CRL extension are certificate revocation lists. These are used by web servers to ensure secure communication on the Internet. Certificate revocation lists stored in CRL files list certificates that have been revoked, for example, due to the disclosure of the private key used to create the certificate. CRL files contain information about the certificate's serial number, its revocation date, and the issuer. Certificates listed in CRL files can be in two states:

• Suspended, with the option of restoration,
• Revoked, without the possibility of renewal.

The decision to add a specific certificate to the CRL files is made by its issuer. Thanks to CRL files, administrators are able to effectively restrict network traffic generated by entities that have lost their certification.

Programs which support CRL file extension

The following list contains programs grouped by 3 operating systems that support CRL files. CRL files can be encountered on all system platforms, including mobile, yet there is no guarantee each will properly support such files.

Updated: 03/06/2024

How to open file with CRL extension?

There can be multiple causes why you have problems with opening CRL files on given system. On the bright side, the most encountered issues pertaining to Certificate Revocation List Format files aren’t complex. In most cases they can be addressed swiftly and effectively without assistance from a specialist. The following is a list of guidelines that will help you identify and solve file-related problems.

Step 1. Get the NetScaler

The most common reason for such problems is the lack of proper applications that supports CRL files installed on the system. The most obvious solution is to download and install NetScaler or one to the listed programs: OpenSSL. Above you will find a complete listing of programs that support CRL files, classified according to system platforms for which they are available. The safest method of downloading NetScaler installed is by going to developer’s website () and downloading the software using provided links.

Step 2. Check the version of NetScaler and update if needed

If the problems with opening CRL files still occur even after installing NetScaler, it is possible that you have an outdated version of the software. Check the developer’s website whether a newer version of NetScaler is available. It may also happen that software creators by updating their applications add compatibility with other, newer file formats. If you have an older version of NetScaler installed, it may not support CRL format. All of the file formats that were handled just fine by the previous versions of given program should be also possible to open using NetScaler.

Step 3. Assign NetScaler to CRL files

If the issue has not been solved in the previous step, you should associate CRL files with latest version of NetScaler you have installed on your device. The next step should pose no problems. The procedure is straightforward and largely system-independent

The procedure to change the default program in Windows

• Right-click the CRL file and choose Open with option
• Next, select the Choose another app option and then using More apps open the list of available applications
• The last step is to select Look for another app on this PC option supply the directory path to the folder where NetScaler is installed. Now all that is left is to confirm your choice by selecting Always use this app to open CRL files and clicking OK.

The procedure to change the default program in Mac OS

• From the drop-down menu, accessed by clicking the file with CRL extension, select Information
• Find the Open with option – click the title if its hidden
• Select the appropriate software and save your settings by clicking Change all
• Finally, a This change will be applied to all files with CRL extension message should pop-up. Click Continue button in order to confirm your choice.

Step 4. Check the CRL for errors

You closely followed the steps listed in points 1-3, but the problem is still present? You should check whether the file is a proper CRL file. Problems with opening the file may arise due to various reasons.

1. Check the CRL file for viruses or malware

Should it happed that the CRL is infected with a virus, this may be that cause that prevents you from accessing it. Scan the CRL file as well as your computer for malware or viruses. If the CRL file is indeed infected follow the instructions below.

2. Verify that the CRL file’s structure is intact

If the CRL file was sent to you by someone else, ask this person to resend the file to you. It is possible that the file has not been properly copied to a data storage and is incomplete and therefore cannot be opened. If the CRL file has been downloaded from the internet only partially, try to redownload it.

3. Ensure that you have appropriate access rights

Sometimes in order to access files user need to have administrative privileges. Log out of your current account and log in to an account with sufficient access privileges. Then open the Certificate Revocation List Format file.

4. Verify that your device fulfills the requirements to be able to open NetScaler

The operating systems may note enough free resources to run the application that support CRL files. Close all running programs and try opening the CRL file.

5. Check if you have the latest updates to the operating system and drivers

Latest versions of programs and drivers may help you solve problems with Certificate Revocation List Format files and ensure security of your device and operating system. Outdated drivers or software may have caused the inability to use a peripheral device needed to handle CRL files.

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