How to Enable SSL for Your Website

Introduction

SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) is essential for securing your website by encrypting data transferred between your site and its visitors. Enabling SSL not only improves security but also boosts your website's SEO ranking and builds trust with users. This guide will walk you through enabling SSL on your website using cPanel and Plesk.

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Enabling SSL in cPanel

Step 1: Access SSL/TLS Manager

1. Log in to cPanel.

2. Navigate to the Security section and click on SSL/TLS.

Step 2: Install an SSL Certificate

Option 1: Use AutoSSL (Free SSL)

1. Click on Manage AutoSSL under the SSL/TLS section.

2. Ensure AutoSSL is enabled for your domain.

3. Click Run AutoSSL to install the certificate.

4. Wait a few minutes for the process to complete.

Option 2: Install a Custom SSL Certificate

1. Purchase an SSL certificate from a provider.

2. In cPanel, go to SSL/TLS > Manage SSL Sites.

3. Select your domain and paste the CRT, Private Key, and CA Bundle from your SSL provider.

4. Click Install Certificate.

Step 3: Force HTTPS Redirection

1. Go to Domains in cPanel.

2. Locate your domain and enable Force HTTPS Redirect.

3. Alternatively, add the following redirect rule to your .htaccess file:

   RewriteEngine On
   RewriteCond %{HTTPS} !=on
   RewriteRule ^ https://%{HTTP_HOST}%{REQUEST_URI} [L,R=301]

   ApacheCopy

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Enabling SSL in Plesk

Step 1: Navigate to SSL/TLS Settings

1. Log in to Plesk.

2. Select Websites & Domains from the left menu.

3. Click on SSL/TLS Certificates.

Step 2: Install an SSL Certificate

Option 1: Use Let’s Encrypt (Free SSL)

1. Click Install Let’s Encrypt.

2. Ensure you select the options to Include www subdomain and Secure mail.

3. Click Install and wait for the certificate to be issued.

Option 2: Install a Purchased SSL Certificate

1. Click Add SSL/TLS Certificate.

2. Upload the CRT, Private Key, and CA Bundle provided by your SSL provider.

3. Click Apply to install the certificate.

Step 3: Enforce HTTPS

1. In Plesk, go to Hosting Settings.

2. Enable Permanent SEO-safe 301 redirect from HTTP to HTTPS.

3. Save changes.

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Verifying SSL Installation

• Visit your website using https://yourdomain.com.

• Use an SSL checker tool (e.g., https://www.sslshopper.com/ssl-checker.html) to verify installation.

• If you see a security warning, clear your cache or reissue the SSL certificate.

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Conclusion

Enabling SSL on your website is crucial for security and credibility. Whether using AutoSSL in cPanel or Let’s Encrypt in Plesk, setting up SSL ensures encrypted communication and enhances user trust. If you experience issues, check your installation settings or contact your hosting provider for support.