How to Install an SSL Certificate on Your WordPress Website

Installing an SSL (Secure Socket Layer) certificate on your WordPress website is essential for securing your site and protecting user data. An SSL certificate encrypts data transmitted between a user’s browser and your server, ensuring that sensitive information remains private. Additionally, having an SSL certificate boosts your site’s SEO ranking and improves customer trust. This guide will walk you through the steps to install an SSL certificate on your WordPress site.

Step 1: Choose an SSL Certificate Provider

Before you can install an SSL certificate, you need to obtain one. You can choose from various providers, including:

Free Options

Services like Let’s Encrypt offer free SSL certificates that are suitable for most websites.

Paid Options

Companies like Comodo, DigiCert, and GoDaddy provide paid certificates with additional features such as warranty and support.

Decide which option is best for your needs and purchase or generate your SSL certificate.

Step 2: Generate a Certificate Signing Request (CSR)

If you choose a paid SSL certificate, you will need to generate a CSR from your web hosting control panel. Here’s how:

  1. Log in to Your Hosting Account: Access your hosting control panel (such as cPanel).
  2. Find the SSL/TLS Section: Look for an option labeled “SSL/TLS” or “Security.”
  3. Generate a CSR: Fill in the required fields (e.g., domain name, organisation name, etc.) and generate the CSR. Copy the CSR code, as you’ll need it for the SSL certificate application.

Step 3: Install the SSL Certificate

After you obtain your SSL certificate from your provider, it’s time to install it:

  1. Return to the SSL/TLS Section: Go back to the SSL/TLS section in your hosting control panel.
  2. Upload the Certificate: Look for an option to upload the SSL certificate. Paste the SSL certificate code you received from the provider.
  3. Install the Certificate: Follow the prompts to complete the installation process. Once installed, the server will be configured to use the SSL certificate.

Step 4: Update Your WordPress Settings

Now that your SSL certificate is installed, you need to update your WordPress settings to ensure your site runs over HTTPS:

  1. Log in to Your WordPress Dashboard.
  2. Go to Settings > General: Change your WordPress Address (URL) and Site Address (URL) from http:// to https://.
  3. Save Changes: Click “Save Changes” to update your settings.

Step 5: Redirect HTTP Traffic to HTTPS

To ensure that all visitors access your site securely, set up a redirection from HTTP to HTTPS:

  1. Edit Your .htaccess File: In the root directory of your WordPress installation, locate the .htaccess file. If you can’t find it, make sure your file manager is set to display hidden files.
  2. Add Redirection Rules: Insert the following code at the top of the file:
    Apache

RewriteEngine On

RewriteCond %{HTTPS} off

RewriteRule ^(.*)$ https://%{HTTP_HOST}%{REQUEST_URI} [L,R=301]

  1. Save the Changes: Save the .htaccess file.

Step 6: Install an SSL Plugin (Optional)

While not mandatory, using an SSL plugin can help manage your SSL settings and ensure your site runs smoothly:

  1. Install a Plugin: Search for an SSL plugin in the WordPress Plugin Directory (e.g., Really Simple SSL).
  2. Activate the Plugin: Follow the instructions to activate and configure the plugin. It will automatically handle the redirection and other necessary settings.

Step 7: Verify the Installation

Once everything is set up, it’s crucial to verify that your SSL certificate is installed correctly:

  1. Visit Your Website: Type your domain in the browser with https://. You should see a padlock icon in the address bar, indicating a secure connection.
  2. Check for Mixed Content: Ensure that all resources (images, scripts, etc.) are loaded via HTTPS. Use tools like Why No Padlock to identify any mixed content issues.

Conclusion

Installing an SSL certificate on your WordPress website is a vital step in securing your site and building trust with your visitors. By following the steps outlined above, you can ensure that your website is safe and that all data transmitted is encrypted. Regularly check your SSL certificate’s status and renew it as necessary to maintain a secure environment for your users.

Ready to take your website to the next level? At Fly High Web, we specialise in WordPress and WooCommerce maintenance and support services tailored to meet your unique needs. Whether you need help with security updates, performance optimisation, or troubleshooting, our expert team is here to ensure your site runs smoothly and efficiently. Don’t let website issues hold you back—contact us today for a free consultation and discover how we can help you achieve your online goals!

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