Changes to security certificate validity for UCT-related websites

From 13 March 2026, the validity of security certificates used across all uct.ac.za domains and subdomains will change from one year to six months. This change has been put in place by our certificate authority to comply with global industry security requirements.

The updated renewal process will ensure that UCT has stronger protection against emerging security threats and will keep our infrastructure aligned with global best practices.

Why are security certificates important?

Security certificates are one of the measures that we use to protect information exchanged online between a web browser and web server. Each time you access a website, a certificate verifies the web server’s identity to ensure that it is a valid and trusted source. A secure connection is then established. Information is encrypted so that it cannot be accessed by unauthorised people, ensuring that its integrity and confidentiality remain intact.

What do I need to do?

Your UCT website's current security certificate will continue to be valid until its original expiry date. In addition, if you acquire a new certificate before 13 March 2026, that certificate will be valid for one year from its issuing.

However, all certificates issued from 13 March 2026 onwards will expire every six months, requiring renewal after this period.

Please log a call should you require assistance regarding security certificates for UCT domains.