> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://doc.peeringhub.io/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://doc.peeringhub.io/guides/generating-certificate/acme-protocol-reference.md).

# ACME protocol reference

This is a general description of the ACME protocol for STIR/SHAKEN ACME servers. For the comprehensive reference see RFC 8555 and ATIS-1000080 v4.

The steps, required to issue a new STIR/SHAKEN certificate for Service Providers (SP), are:

1. List ACME server directory
2. Acquire nonce
3. Authorize on the server; Ensure that the account is active
4. Place a new order
5. Get challenge
6. Submit challenge response
7. Upload CSR
8. Download certificate