How to Download and Install OpenSSL on Windows 10 & 11

Updated: August 2026 • Reading time: 4 min

OpenSSL is an essential open-source command-line tool used for generating SSL/TLS certificates, managing RSA keys, and handling cryptographic operations. Unlike Linux or macOS, Windows does not include OpenSSL by default.

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Step 1: Download OpenSSL Binaries for Windows

Select and download the pre-compiled executable setup for your system architecture:

Recommended

OpenSSL v3.x.x (64-bit)

For modern 64-bit Windows 10/11 systems.

📥 Download Win64 (.exe)
Legacy

OpenSSL v3.x.x (32-bit)

For older 32-bit Windows systems.

📥 Download Win32 (.exe)
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Step 2: Run the Installer Setup

Once downloaded, right-click the installer and select Run as Administrator:

  1. Accept the License Agreement.
  2. Choose the installation destination (Default: C:\Program Files\OpenSSL-Win64).
  3. Click Next through the wizard options and click Install.
  4. Uncheck the donation prompt and click Finish.
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Step 3: Fix "Command Not Recognized" Error (Set PATH)

If you open Command Prompt and type openssl version, Windows will display an error because the binary path is not registered in Environment Variables.

Follow these steps to add it:

  1. Copy the path of the OpenSSL bin folder (usually C:\Program Files\OpenSSL-Win64\bin).
  2. Press the Start Menu, search for Environment Variables, and open system properties.
  3. Click on Environment Variables at the bottom right.
  4. Under System Variables, locate Path, select it, and click Edit.
  5. Click New, paste your ...\bin folder path, and click OK on all windows.

Step 4: Verify Installation

Close any open terminals, launch a new Command Prompt or PowerShell, and run:

openssl version

If configured correctly, it will output the active installed version:

OpenSSL 3.5.0 (Library: OpenSSL 3.5.0)