---
type: concept
title: Group Certificates (Gruppenzertifikate)
tags: [pki, authentication, security]
related: [dfn-pki-zertifikate, harica, shibboleth]
created: 2026-06-30
updated: 2026-06-30
sources: ["output/rz_uni_greifswald_de_dienste_allgemein_dfn_pki_zertifikate_gruppenzertifikate.md"]
---

# Group Certificates (Gruppenzertifikate)

**Group Certificates** are PKI certificates issued for functional accounts (group accounts) rather than individual users. While the general application process is similar to that of personal email certificates, there is a critical difference in the authentication flow.

## Authentication Process
The primary distinction for group certificates is the **exclusion of [[shibboleth]]**. 

- **Personal Certificates**: Typically use Shibboleth for university-wide authentication.
- **Group Certificates**: Require the creation of a separate, dedicated account directly within the [[harica]] system. Users must use the **"Sign Up"** function on the HARICA platform to establish this account for the functional identity.

## Support
Issues regarding the issuance or management of group certificates are handled by the [[universitatsrechenzentrum-urz]] through:
- The [[groupware]] ticket system.
- The URZ hotline.
