How to Install an SSL Certificate
Installing an SSL Certificate is one of the most important steps in securing your website. SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) encrypts the data exchanged between your website and its visitors. When SSL is installed, your website URL changes from http:// to https://, and a padlock symbol appears in the browser—showing users that your site is safe and trustworthy. Search engines like Google also consider SSL as a ranking factor, meaning it can improve your SEO and overall website credibility.
What Is an SSL Certificate?
An SSL certificate is a digital security certificate that verifies the identity of your website and encrypts user data. It helps protect sensitive information such as login details, payments, and personal data. SSL is essential for eCommerce websites, login portals, blogs, and business websites.
Benefits of SSL:
- Protects user data
- Builds trust with visitors
- Improves search engine ranking
- Enables secure online payments
Prevents browser warnings like “Not Secure”
Types of SSL Certificates
Before installation, it helps to understand the major types:
- DV (Domain Validation): Basic security, quick approval.
- OV (Organization Validation): Verifies business identity.
- EV (Extended Validation): Highest trust level with a green address bar.
- Wildcard SSL: Secures the main domain + unlimited subdomains.
- Multi-Domain SSL: Secures multiple different domains.
How to Install an SSL Certificate (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Choose Your SSL Certificate
You can get SSL certificates from:
- Your hosting provider
- Certificate Authorities like Sectigo, DigiCert, or Let’s Encrypt (free)
Most hosting companies provide a free SSL with hosting plans.
Step 2: Generate a CSR (Certificate Signing Request)
A CSR is a file required by the certificate authority to verify your domain.
You can generate it via:
- cPanel → SSL/TLS → Generate CSR
- Hosting dashboard
- Server terminal (for advanced users)
You will enter details like:
- Domain name
- Company name
- Country
Step 3: Verify Your Domain
The SSL provider will ask for domain verification through:
- Email verification
- DNS record
- File upload to your server
Once verified, your SSL certificate will be issued.
Step 4: Install the SSL Certificate
Most hosting platforms allow easy installation:
In cPanel
- Go to SSL/TLS
- Click Install and Manage SSL
- Paste the:
- Certificate (CRT)
- Private Key
- CA Bundle
- Click Install Certificate
In WordPress Hosting
Many hosts give one-click SSL installation using tools like:
- AutoSSL
- Let’s Encrypt
- SSL Manager
For Cloud Servers (AWS, DigitalOcean, etc.)
Use:
- Certbot (for Let’s Encrypt)
- Load balancer SSL attachment
- Server configuration (Apache/Nginx)
Step 5: Enable HTTPS Across the Website
After installation, redirect your website to HTTPS.
Add this to your .htaccess file (for Apache):
RewriteEngine On
RewriteCond %{HTTPS} off
RewriteRule ^(.*)$ https://%{HTTP_HOST}%{REQUEST_URI} [L,R=301]
Or use a plugin like Really Simple SSL for WordPress.
Step 6: Check If SSL Is Installed Correctly
Verify using:
- SSL Labs Test
- Why No Padlock
- Browser inspection
You should see a padlock icon next to your website URL.
Why SSL Installation Is Important
Installing SSL helps you:
✔ Improve Website Security
Protects user information from hackers.
✔ Build Visitor Trust
Visitors feel safe interacting with your site.
✔ Improve SEO Rankings
Google ranks HTTPS sites higher.
✔ Prevent Browser Warnings
Avoid “Your connection is not private” errors.
✔ Enable Online Payments
Required for eCommerce checkout pages