Securing your website with an SSL certificate is essential in today’s digital world. Not only does it protect data transmission between the server and users, but it also boosts your website’s credibility and search engine ranking. AvaHost provides cPanel Hosting, you can easily install an SSL certificate with just a few steps. This guide will show you how to do it — whether you’re using a free SSL (like AutoSSL or Let’s Encrypt) or a purchased certificate.

Step 1: Log in to cPanel

Access your cPanel account by visiting yourdomain.com/cpanel or through your AvaHost’s dashboard. Enter your username and password to log in.

Step 2: Locate the SSL/TLS Section

Once inside cPanel, scroll down to the Security section and click on SSL/TLS. This section allows you to manage private keys, CSR (Certificate Signing Requests), and certificates.

Step 3: Install an SSL Certificate (Using AutoSSL or Let’s Encrypt)

AvaHost supports AutoSSL or Let’s Encrypt, you can install SSL with just a click:

  1. Go back to the cPanel main dashboard.

  2. Open SSL/TLS Status.

  3. Select the domain you want to secure.

  4. Click Run AutoSSL.

The system will automatically generate and install the SSL certificate for your domain.

Note: AutoSSL renews certificates automatically, so no further action is required once it’s set up.

Step 4: Install a Custom SSL Certificate (Manually)

If you’ve purchased an SSL certificate from a third-party provider, follow these steps:

  1. In the SSL/TLS section, click Manage SSL Sites under “Install and Manage SSL for your site (HTTPS).”

  2. Scroll to Install an SSL Website.

  3. Choose your domain from the drop-down list.

  4. Paste your Certificate (CRT) into the respective box.

  5. Paste your Private Key (KEY).

  6. Paste the Certificate Authority Bundle (CABUNDLE) if required.

  7. Click Install Certificate.

If all details are correct, you’ll receive a success message confirming the certificate has been installed.

Step 5: Force HTTPS (Optional but Recommended)

To make sure all traffic is securely redirected to HTTPS:

  1. Go to Domains in cPanel.

  2. Locate your domain and enable Force HTTPS Redirect.

Alternatively, you can add a redirect rule in your .htaccess file to force HTTPS.

Conclusion

Installing an SSL certificate on your domain through cPanel is a straightforward process that enhances your site’s security and trustworthiness. Whether you choose AutoSSL or a custom certificate, cPanel provides all the necessary tools to manage your SSL with ease. Always ensure your certificate stays active and renew it on time to keep your website protected.