Why TLS Certificate Management in 2026 Feels Like an Endless Game of Whack-A-Cert

Executive Summary

The impending 2026 deadline for TLS certificate expiration marks a significant shift in cybersecurity management. With lifespans reduced from 398 days to 200 days, organizations must adapt swiftly or face increased operational disruptions. This article explores key strategies for mastering TLS Certificate Management to avoid outages and ensure continuous compliance. Emphasizing automation, it delivers essential insights to help businesses thrive in a rapidly evolving security landscape.

 Read the full article from CyberArk here for comprehensive insights.

Main Highlights

The Urgency of TLS Certificate Management

• TLS certificates confirm machine identity online, ensuring secure communications.
• From March 2026, certificates will have a lifespan of only 200 days, impacting millions of organizations.

Automation as a Key Solution

• Automating TLS certificate lifecycle management (CLM) is crucial for minimizing disruptions.
• Timely renewals will prevent outages and degraded customer experiences due to lapses.

Impact on Businesses and Governance

• All sectors, including government and private enterprises, will feel the pressure of faster expiring certificates.
• Without proper management, companies may face online outages affecting revenues and reputations.

Strategies for Success

• Prioritize investment in automated management systems for efficiency and compliance.
• Develop proactive monitoring systems to prevent lapsing of certificates.

Preparing for the Future

• Staying informed on trends in TLS certificate management is vital for all organizations.
• Establishing robust cybersecurity protocols is essential as the digital landscape evolves.

 Access the full expert analysis and actionable security insights from CyberArk here.