How to Install SSL Certificate on cPanel

A comprehensive guide to installing and managing SSL certificates through the cPanel interface.

Table of Contents

Prerequisites

Before installing an SSL certificate on cPanel, ensure you have:

  • cPanel hosting account with admin access
  • Domain name properly configured in cPanel
  • SSL certificate files:
    • Certificate file (.crt)
    • Private key file (.key)
    • Certificate chain file (if applicable)
Note: Some features may require specific cPanel versions or hosting provider permissions.

Obtaining SSL Certificate

You can obtain an SSL certificate through several methods in cPanel:

Certificate Options
  • AutoSSL: Free certificates through your hosting provider
  • Let's Encrypt: Free certificates if supported by your host
  • Purchase SSL: Buy certificates directly through cPanel
  • Third-party: Install certificates from external providers

Installing SSL Certificate

Follow these steps to install your SSL certificate in cPanel:

  1. Log in to cPanel
  2. Navigate to "SSL/TLS" section
  3. Click "Install and Manage SSL for your site (HTTPS)"
  4. Select the domain for installation
  5. Enter certificate details: 
    # Paste your certificate contents in these fields:
Certificate (CRT)
Private Key (KEY)
Certificate Authority Bundle (CABUNDLE)
  6. Click "Install Certificate"

Managing Certificates

cPanel provides several tools for certificate management:

Management Features
  • SSL Status: View installed certificates
  • Certificate Details: Check expiration and info
  • Domain Management: Assign certificates to domains
  • AutoSSL: Configure automatic renewals

Testing Installation

Verify your SSL installation:

  1. Check SSL status in cPanel:
    • Navigate to SSL/TLS Status
    • Verify certificate installation
  2. Test website access:
    • Visit https://yourdomain.com
    • Check certificate details in browser
    • Verify secure connection icon

Troubleshooting

  • Installation Errors: Check certificate format and chain order
  • Domain Mismatch: Verify domain name in certificate
  • Mixed Content: Update internal links to HTTPS
  • AutoSSL Issues: Check DNS configuration

Best Practices

  • Security:
    • Keep certificates up to date
    • Enable AutoSSL when available
    • Regular security checks
  • Maintenance:
    • Monitor certificate expiration
    • Backup certificate files
    • Document installation details

AutoSSL Configuration

Configure AutoSSL for automated certificate management:

AutoSSL Setup
  1. Access "SSL/TLS Status"
  2. Click "Manage AutoSSL"
  3. Select domains for automation
  4. Configure renewal settings
Tip: AutoSSL provides free automatic certificate management and renewal.

Certellix is an independent service. We are not affiliated with any commercial certificate authority.

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