A method for replacing a current security certificate includes producing a security certificate request at a first device that includes a request for a replacement security certificate. The method additionally includes sending the security certificate request to a security certificate vendor and receiving a replacement security certificate from the security certificate vendor. The method further includes installing the replacement security certificate within a verification layer of the client device and transmitting the replacement security certificate to the server. The method additionally includes verifying that the server has installed the replacement security certificate, wherein the verification further verifies that the replacement security certificate enables encrypted communication between the client device and the server. The method additionally includes archiving the current security certificate upon completion of the verification, and activating the replacement security certificate for use in encrypting communications between the client device and the server.