How to Install an SSL Certificate on Your Website
Installing an SSL certificate is what switches your website from "not secure" to fully protected. Even if your CMS and hosting are working perfectly, your visitors expect that lock icon in the browser. Installing SSL is how you give your site that final layer of trust.
Fortunately, installing SSL today is easier than ever.
The Easiest Way: Automatic SSL at HostPapi
Most beginners don't want to deal with SSL files, keys, or settings--and you shouldn't have to.
If your domain and hosting are both at HostPapi, SSL installs automatically.
- FREE SSL
- UNLIMITED SSL certificates
- Automatic setup
- Instant activation
- Zero configuration required
All HostPapi hosting plans include automatic SSL:
cPanel Hosting (Free + Unlimited SSL Included)
WordPress Hosting (Auto CMS + Auto SSL)
Web Hosting Plus (More Power + Unlimited SSL)
Buy your domain ? choose your hosting ? SSL is done.
If You Need to Install SSL Manually
Sometimes your domain and hosting are bought from different companies.
In that case, installing SSL requires a few extra steps--but still simple.
- Log in to your hosting control panel
- Find the SSL or Security section
- Choose your domain
- Enable "AutoSSL" or "Free SSL" if available
- If required, paste the certificate and key provided by the SSL issuer
Most hosting providers now offer 1-click SSL activation.
What Your CMS Needs Before SSL Works
Once SSL is installed, your CMS must be told to use "https" instead of "http".
This usually involves:
- Updating your site URL in the CMS settings
- Replacing old "http" links inside your content
- Checking your menu and image links
- Clearing caches
Once updated, your entire site begins loading securely.
If you followed the Websites-For-Dummies guide, this connects back to:
Your Contact page especially should be protected.
How to Verify SSL Is Working
After installation:
- Visit your domain using https
- Look for the lock icon
- Use a browser's developer tools to confirm no mixed content
- Test your login page
- Check that your CMS admin loads securely
If you see warnings, it usually means an old image or link is still using http.
Why SSL Matters for Your Digital Property
You own your domain.
You own your hosting.
You own your CMS.
SSL is simply protecting the front door.
It keeps your visitors safe, protects your login panel, and shows the world your site is legitimate.
Final Thought
Installing SSL used to be technical. Today, it's simple--and at HostPapi, it's automatic.
Secure your website once, and your CMS can grow with confidence, trust, and stability.
More Website Setup:
- Free SSL vs Paid SSL: What's the Real Difference?
- How to Choose the Right Domain Name for Your Website
- How Domain Registration Works (And Why It Matters for Your Website)
- What DNS Is (And Why Your Website Needs It)
- What an SSL Certificate Is (And Why Your Website Needs One)
- How to Point Your Domain to Your Hosting
- How to Connect Your Domain to WordPress
- What Is WHOIS Privacy Protection (And Why You Need It)
- Your CMS on Your Domain Name - Stop Publishing on Borrowed Land
- How to Install an SSL Certificate on Your Website
- How to Launch Your Website (Final Checklist)
FAQs
