The Complete Guide to Manually Installing an SSL Certificate: Step-by-Step Instructions

By adminSSL

Introduction

In today’s digital world, securing your website with an SSL certificate is essential to protect your users’ data and boost your site’s SEO. While many hosts offer one-click SSL installations, knowing how to install it manually is a valuable skill. This guide will walk you through the entire process.

Step 1: Purchase an SSL Certificate

Start by purchasing an SSL certificate from a trusted Certificate Authority (CA), like [examples: Let’s Encrypt, Comodo, or DigiCert]. Once you’ve bought the certificate, the CA will provide files that you’ll need for the installation.

Step 2: Generate a CSR (Certificate Signing Request)

A CSR is needed to request the certificate from your CA. Here’s how to generate one:

  • Log into your server’s control panel (usually cPanel).
  • Locate the SSL/TLS settings.
  • Click Generate, view, or delete SSL certificate signing requests.
  • Enter your domain’s details: domain name, company name, location, and email.
  • Generate and save the CSR, as you’ll need to upload it to your CA to get the certificate files.

Step 3: Submit the CSR to Your Certificate Authority

Head to your CA’s website, navigate to your account, and submit the CSR. The CA will process it, and once verified, they’ll send you the certificate files by email or make them available in your account.

Step 4: Upload the SSL Certificate Files to Your Server

Once you have the certificate files, it’s time to upload them:

  • Access cPanel: Log into your cPanel and locate the SSL/TLS section.
  • Install and Manage SSL for your site: Go to the area where you can add certificates.
  • Upload the Certificate Files: You’ll usually see fields for your CRT (certificate), private key, and CA bundle. Paste or upload each file in its respective field.
  • Save and Verify: Click on “Install Certificate” or a similar button, and wait for a confirmation message.

Step 5: Update Site URLs to HTTPS

Now that the SSL certificate is active, update your site URLs:

  • For WordPress: Go to Settings > General, and change your site URL from http to https.
  • For Non-WordPress Sites: Modify the base URLs in your site files or CMS settings.

Step 6: Test Your SSL Installation

It’s crucial to confirm the installation is successful:

  • Visit your site and look for a padlock icon in the browser’s address bar.
  • Use online tools like SSL Checker or Why No Padlock? to validate your installation and identify any insecure elements.

Conclusion

And there you have it! Manually installing an SSL certificate doesn’t have to be intimidating. With a bit of patience and following each step, you can secure your website and reassure visitors that their data is safe.

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