This webpage provides instructions for using the acme-dns DNS challenge method with various ACME clients to obtain HTTPS certificates for private networks. Caddy, Traefik, cert-manager, acme.sh, LEGO and Certify The Web are listed as ACME clients that support acme-dns. For each client, configuration examples are provided that show how to set API credentials and other settings to use the acme-dns service at https://api.getlocalcert.net/api/v1/acme-dns-compat to obtain certificates. Interesting that so many ACME clients support the acme-dns service, providing an easy way to obtain HTTPS certificates for private networks.
HN https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=36674224
seiferteric: Proposes an idea for automatically creating trusted certificates for new devices on a private network.
hartmel: Mentions SCEP which allows automatic certificate enrollment for network devices.
mananaysiempre: Thinks using EJBCA for this, as hartmel suggested, adds unnecessary complexity.
8organicbits: Describes a solution using getlocalcert which issues certificates for anonymous domain names.
austin-cheney: Has a solution using TypeScript that checks for existing certificates and creates them if needed, installing them in the OS and browser.
bruce511: Says automating the process is possible.
lolinder: Mentions Caddy will automatically create and manage certificates for local domains.
frfl: Uses Lego to get a Let’s Encrypt certificate for a local network website using the DNS challenge.
donselaar: Recommends DANE which works well for private networks without a public CA, but lacks browser support.
But why
Because you might want to use HTTPS on a server that’s not accessible externally. Some browser features only work over HTTPS.
Every browser implements these limitations, as they’re part of the web platform. Some examples are service workers, web crypto, HTTP/2, webcam, microphone, geolocation, and more. There’s a list here: https://developer.mozilla.org/en-US/docs/Web/Security/Secure_Contexts/features_restricted_to_secure_contexts
Good browsers don’t let random unauthenticated content to do whatever it wants on neither the local machine or the network.
HTTPS is also the only way to use client-side certificates for strong two-way authentication and zero-trust setups.
