CRL File Extension
Certificate Revocation List Format
- File Type crl
- Popularity
- Application Microsoft Internet Information Services
- Category Encoded Files
What is a CRL file?
Certificate Revocation List Format, identified by the CRL extension, is a Encoded Files type and includes 286 files.
CRL files are compatible with various operating systems, including Linux, Mac OS and Windows. If you need to open a CRL file, you can use one of 2 programs, such as OpenSSL and Microsoft Internet Information Services.
MIME types
- application/pkix-crl
- application/pkcs-crl
Programs that support CRL files
How to open a CRL file?
If you’re having difficulty opening a CRL file, it is often due to not having the correct software. To solve the problem, choose a compatible program from the list. Then follow the link to the official developer site, download the software, and install it on your device.
OpenSSL and Microsoft Internet Information Services are recognized as the most popular software solutions for dealing with CRL files. To install the most up-to-date edition of Microsoft Internet Information Services, visit the official Microsoft website. You can download the build that works across all operating systems.
After successful installation, your operating system should seamlessly handle CRL files via Microsoft Internet Information Services.
Set Microsoft Internet Information Services as your default CRL viewer
Setting a default program by file type in Windows
- Right-click your CRL file, then navigate to the "Open With" option and click "Choose Another Application" to continue;
- From the list of applications in the pop-up window, find and select Microsoft Internet Information Services as your desired application;
- Check the "Always use this app" checkbox, and then click "OK" to set your chosen app as the default for opening CRL files.
Set default app to open files on Mac
- Right-click or Control + left-click on the desired CRL file to open a menu of available actions;
- Select "Open in application" and click "Other";
- Go to the lower section of the window, where you will find the "Enable" menu. By default, it is set to "Recommended Programs";
- Select "All Programs" from this menu and proceed to search for Microsoft Internet Information Services. Check the box next to "Always open in app" to set it as the default option.
How to edit a CRL file?
Editing CRL files requires installing professional software that lets you open and edit encoded files. Online editors have more limitations compared to dedicated Certificate Revocation List Format programs.
List of Top CRL editors 2026
With the mentioned criteria in mind, we have assembled a selection of CRL editors.
| CRL Editor Software | Developer | Platforms | Overall Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| OpenSSL | - | Windows, Mac OS, Linux | 4.9 out of 5 (40 reviews) |
| Microsoft Internet Information Services | Microsoft | Windows | 4.5 out of 5 (37 reviews) |
Solving Common CRL File Challenges
CRL files may present some challenges, but most can be easily addressed with minor software tweaks. See the troubleshooting tips below for guidance.
Are there any techniques or tools available to repair a damaged CRL file?
Open the damaged CRL file with a recovery program, and then select the "Repair" menu item to start the repair process. Wait for the recovery process to finish, as it will automatically repair damaged encoded files.
What are the telltale signs of a corrupt CRL file?
Corrupted CRL encoded files may show the following signs:
- Unexpected expansion of the total size of the CRL file;
- Opening or processing the file in Microsoft Internet Information Services or other programs causes instability or crashes in the program;
- The file shows errors when trying to open it or does not open completely;
- While working with the file, error messages appear;
- Editing the archive in OpenSSL is accompanied by slow performance or delays;
What factors contribute to Microsoft Internet Information Services crash?
Microsoft Internet Information Services crashes can occur due to outdated software versions. To mitigate this, install the latest updates for Microsoft products.
A simple restart of your computer can often fix many common problems, which is why it is the recommended first step before making any adjustments to your software settings.