# Finding SSL certificate fingerprints

> Find an SSL certificate's fingerprint in your browser or with OpenSSL to confirm you are using the certificate you expect.

Source: https://helpcenter.ruachost.com/ssl-security/ssl-certificates/finding-ssl-certificate-fingerprints/

An **SSL certificate fingerprint** (also called a *thumbprint*) is a unique string of characters that identifies a certificate. It’s often used to verify that the certificate installed on your server matches the one issued by the Certificate Authority (CA).

## Why Check Fingerprints?

- Confirm authenticity of an SSL certificate.
- Detect tampering or replacement of certificates.
- Troubleshoot SSL connection issues.
- Verify certificates during manual installations.

## How to Find Fingerprints in Popular Browsers

### Google Chrome

1. At the left side of the browser’s address bar, click the **padlock icon**.
2. Click **Connection is secure**.
3. Click **Certificate is valid**.
4. On the **General tab**, the fingerprints appear.

### Mozilla Firefox

1. At the left side of the browser’s address bar, click the **padlock icon**.
2. Click **Connection secure**.
3. Click **More Information**.
4. Click **View Certificate**.
5. Scroll down to the **Fingerprints section**.

### Microsoft Edge

1. At the left side of the browser’s address bar, click the **padlock icon**.
2. Click **Connection is secure**.
3. In the pop‑up dialog box, click the **Show certificate icon**.
4. On the **General tab**, the fingerprints appear.

> **Note:**
- Fingerprints are usually displayed as **SHA‑1** or **SHA‑256 hashes**.
- Always compare the fingerprint shown in your browser with the one provided by your CA.
- If they don’t match, the certificate may have been altered or replaced.