In today’s internet age, security is non-negotiable. Whether you’re running a personal blog or an eCommerce store, your visitors expect their data to be encrypted and safe. That’s where SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) certificates come into play. They encrypt the data transfer between your server and the visitor’s browser ensuring privacy, trust, and even boosting your SEO rankings.

At EglueWeb, one of the most common requests we handle from hosting clients is SSL installation through cPanel. Fortunately, if your hosting provider uses cPanel, installing SSL can be done easily even without technical expertise.

This blog will walk you through how to install an SSL certificate via cPanel, step-by-step.

Why SSL Matters

Before diving into the steps, here’s why installing SSL is crucial:

• Data Security: SSL encrypts sensitive data like passwords, credit cards, and personal info.

• Trust and Credibility: HTTPS and the padlock symbol reassure visitors.

• SEO Advantage: Google considers HTTPS a ranking signal.

• Required by Browsers: Modern browsers show “Not Secure” warnings without SSL.

Prerequisites

Make sure you have the following:

1. Access to your cPanel account.

2. Your domain already pointed to your hosting server.

3. Either a free SSL (e.g., AutoSSL / Let’s Encrypt) or a paid SSL certificate purchased from a provider like Sectigo, Comodo, etc.

Method 1: Installing Free SSL with AutoSSL (Let’s Encrypt)

Most modern cPanel setups support AutoSSL, which automatically issues and installs a free SSL certificate.

Step 1: Log in to cPanel

• Navigate to https://yourdomain.com:2083 or access cPanel via your hosting provider’s dashboard.

• Enter your username and password.

Step 2: Go to “SSL/TLS Status”

• Scroll down to the Security section.

• Click on “SSL/TLS Status.”

Step 3: Select Domains

• You’ll see a list of your domains and subdomains.

• Select the checkboxes for the domains where you want SSL installed.

Step 4: Run AutoSSL

• Click the “Run AutoSSL” button.

• Wait for the process to complete. You should see a success message once done.

Note: If AutoSSL fails, ensure your DNS is properly configured and there are no redirects or HTTP authentication interfering with validation.

Method 2: Installing a Custom SSL Certificate

If you purchased an SSL from an external provider (like GoDaddy, Namecheap, or DigiCert), follow these steps.

Step 1: Generate CSR (Certificate Signing Request)

1. Go to SSL/TLS in cPanel.

2. Under Certificate Signing Requests (CSR), click “Generate, view, or delete CSR.”

3. Fill in the following:

   • Domain: yourdomain.com

   • City/State/Country

   • Company Name

   • Email

4. Click “Generate.”

5. Copy the generated CSR and submit it to your SSL provider to get the certificate.

Step 2: Get the Certificate Files

Once your SSL provider verifies your CSR, they’ll send you:

• The Certificate (CRT)

• The CA Bundle (CABUNDLE) (optional but recommended)

• The Private Key (already stored in cPanel if you generated CSR there)

Step 3: Install the SSL Certificate

1. Go to SSL/TLS in cPanel.

2. Under “Install and Manage SSL”, click “Manage SSL sites.”

3. Choose the domain name.

4. Paste:

   • Certificate (CRT)

   • Private Key (automatically filled if CSR was generated in cPanel)

   • Certificate Authority Bundle (CABUNDLE)

5. Click “Install Certificate.”

You should now see a confirmation message stating that the certificate has been successfully installed.

Final Step: Verify Installation

After installation:

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

• Look for the padlock icon in the address bar

• Use tools like SSL Checker to verify the installation

Bonus Tips

• Redirect HTTP to HTTPS: Use the “Force HTTPS Redirect” toggle in the “Domains” section of cPanel.

• Renewals: Free SSL certificates renew automatically, but manual SSLs must be renewed before expiry (usually annually).

• Wildcard SSLs: Use this if you want one certificate to cover all subdomains (e.g., *.yourdomain.com).

Conclusion

Installing an SSL certificate via cPanel isn’t just about ticking a compliance checkbox it’s about safeguarding your users, improving SEO, and protecting your brand’s reputation. Whether you’re using AutoSSL or manually installing a third-party certificate, the process is simple with cPanel’s interface.

At EglueWeb, we’ve helped thousands of hosting clients secure their websites with zero downtime. If you need help with installing, renewing, or troubleshooting SSLs or if you manage a hosting business and want to automate SSL deployment across all your clients we’ve got your back.

Secure your site today. Reach out to EglueWeb for expert SSL assistance!