Friedrich,

I suspect the default option is often selected just by "default," not necessarily because that's what developers prefer. We don't always remember what bit us in the rear the last time, especially if it's something we do infrequently. After some further research, I discovered that the culprit is most likely IE7/VISTA, as also suggested by the latest reply from Comodo:

I suspect your collection process on browser. You can also collect your certificate file as spc and pvk. It is generated instantly. You should reorder again through account login and claim refund for current cert. (We have 30 day refund policy). During order process, Please ensure options as follows..

Stored as a file

Please use IE 5.5 or above to apply and collect the certificate, and use the same system to apply and collect the certificate. Kindly select the following options, while ordering the certificate.

Stored cert as file (select)
CSP: Microsoft Enhanced Cryptographic Provider v1.0
Key Size: 2048
Exportable:? tick
User protected:? not tick

Looks like my wasted Easter Sunday isn't a total loss after all.

Hal Heindel
www.printshopmakeover.com