Making OpenSSL Approachable: Interactive Labs, Automation, and AI Insights

Learning OpenSSL can be intimidating, especially for beginners navigating cryptic commands and complex workflows. This talk introduces an interactive learning platform I have developed that uses simulated terminals, visual diagrams, quizzes, and hands-on labs to teach OpenSSL fundamentals in a more accessible and engaging way. Beyond the beginner experience, I will also share technical lessons learned from real-world deployments, including setting up TAXII servers with FIPS 140 compliance, handling OpenSSL limitations around subject string customization, and automating CRL updates where OpenSSL provides no built-in support. This session blends practical tools with deep technical insights to help teams confidently work with cryptographic systems.