Knowledgebase

How to Install SSL Certificate in cPanel – A Step-by-Step Guide

In today’s digital world, securing your website with SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) is no longer optional—it’s a must. It not only protects your data but also builds trust with your visitors and helps boost SEO rankings.

If you're using cPanel, installing SSL is quite simple. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get your SSL certificate installed easily.

What is SSL?

SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) encrypts the connection between a website and its visitors. Websites with SSL show a padlock icon (????) in the browser and start with https:// instead of http://.

???? Steps to Install SSL in cPanel

1. Log in to Your cPanel

• Go to: https://yourdomain.com:2083
• Enter your cPanel username and password

2. Open “SSL/TLS” Section

• Scroll down to the “Security” section
• Click on SSL/TLS

3. Choose “Manage SSL Sites” or “Install and Manage SSL for your site (HTTPS)”

• Under the Install and Manage SSL option, click Manage SSL Sites
• You’ll see all available domains

 4. Use AutoSSL (Recommended)

If your web hosting supports AutoSSL, it’s the easiest way:

• Go to “SSL/TLS Status”
• Click the checkbox next to your domain
• Click “Run AutoSSL”

This will automatically install a free SSL certificate (usually powered by Let’s Encrypt or cPanel (Sectigo))

 5. Manual Installation (If You Have Certificate Files)

If you bought an SSL certificate from a third party:

1. Open “Install an SSL Website” in cPanel
2. Paste the following:
   • Certificate (CRT)
   • Private Key (KEY)
   • Certificate Authority Bundle (CABUNDLE) (optional but recommended)
3. Click Install Certificate

Your SSL will be installed immediately.

 How to Check If SSL is Working?

• Open your site in a browser: https://yourdomain.com
• You should see a padlock icon ????

Final Tips

• Make sure your domain points to your server before running AutoSSL
• Always force HTTPS for security (you can do this from .htaccess or using a plugin like Really Simple SSL if using WordPress)
• Renew your certificate if it’s not AutoSSL (most expire after 90 days or 1 year)

✅ Conclusion

Installing an SSL certificate in cPanel is a quick and important step to secure your website. Whether you use AutoSSL or manual installation, cPanel makes the process beginner-friendly. With SSL enabled, you protect your users, improve trust, and even help your site’s ranking in search engines.