Title: Overcoming SSL Certificate Installation Challenges on AlmaLinux: A Personal Journey
Setting up secure websites can sometimes feel like navigating a minefield, especially when you’re self-learning and tackling server configurations on your own. Recently, I found myself facing an unexpected obstacle while securing multiple websites on my AlmaLinux server, and I’d like to share my experience in the hopes it might help others in similar situations.
A Brief Background
My server hosts approximately seven websites, a setup I migrated manually from an older CentOS system. This migration involved copying files via rsync, including web content, virtual host configurations, and database backups. Everything seemed to transfer smoothly, but issues arose when I attempted to install SSL certificates with Certbot.
The Issue: Infinite Redirects and Certificate Installation Failures
After migration, I encountered a perplexing problem: Certbot refused to install SSL certificates because of infinite redirect loops detected on my sites. This was confusing—on CentOS Stream 8, the setup worked perfectly, but on AlmaLinux, the same configuration led to these redirect errors.
I suspected it might be related to misconfigured redirects or virtual host settings, but troubleshooting was frustrating. Like many self-taught sysadmins, I turned to AI assistance, copying error logs and configuration snippets into a local language model for guidance. Unfortunately, it didn’t provide immediate solutions.
A Simple Yet Unexpected Solution
In a moment of experimentation, I opened each virtual host configuration file in Vim, then closed them—to refresh the server’s understanding of the configurations—and re-ran Certbot.
Lo and behold, the error vanished. The certificates installed successfully without me making any further changes.
Lessons Learned
Sometimes, server issues — even seemingly complex ones — can be resolved with simple steps like reloading configurations or resetting certain files. It’s a reminder that persistence and a fresh perspective are key in troubleshooting.
Now, I can enjoy a well-deserved whiskey as I celebrate this small victory.
Final thoughts: Self-hosting and securing websites require patience and a willingness to experiment. Don’t be discouraged by setbacks; sometimes, the fix is simpler than it seems. Keep exploring, and happy hosting!
Disclaimer: I’m still learning and might not have all the answers—so approach troubleshooting with curiosity and a willingness to try unconventional solutions.
