Get rid of the Apache pass phrase request for a RSA certificate

Ever seen this when you try to start Apache with SSL support for the first time?
Apache/2.2.15 mod_ssl/2.2.15 (Pass Phrase Dialog)
Some of your private key files are encrypted for security reasons.
In order to read them you have to provide the pass phrases.
Server this.is.your.web.page.url:443 (RSA)
Enter pass phrase:

It looks that you’ve given your private key a pass phrase when you’ve created it. Not the best idea if you plan to have your Apache web server starting automatically. Anyway, if you want to suppress this message and get Apache started without asking for the pass phrase you can enter this command.
[root@myserver]# openssl rsa -in protected.rsa.key -out unprotected.rsa.key
You have to change the key names accordingly.
P.S. I have to say that you need the pass phrase to un-protect the key.

About Juergen Caris

I am 54yo, MSc(Dist) and BSc in Computer Science, German and working as a Senior Server Engineer for the NHS Lothian. I am responsible for the patient management system, called TrakCare. I am a UNIX/Linux guy, working in this sector for more than 20 years now. I am also interested in robotics, microprocessors, system monitoring, Home automation and programming.
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