How to install an SSL certificate: step-by-step guide

Installing SSL on your website

The installation method depends on your hosting provider and control panel. Most Dutch hosts offer automatic SSL installation, but sometimes manual work is needed.

Automatic installation (recommended)

Via your hosting provider

The easiest method: many providers activate SSL automatically. Check if your provider supports this:

1. Log in to your hosting panel
2. Look for "SSL" or "Security"
3. Enable Let's Encrypt or AutoSSL
4. Wait for the certificate to activate (usually within minutes)

cPanel AutoSSL

cPanel can automatically install free certificates:

1. Go to cPanel > SSL/TLS Status
2. Click Run AutoSSL
3. Wait for installation to complete
4. Verify all domains show green

DirectAdmin

In DirectAdmin, find SSL under:

1. Account Manager > SSL Certificates
2. Select Free & automatic certificate from Let's Encrypt
3. Click Save

Manual installation

If automatic installation doesn't work, you can manually install a certificate.

Step 1: Generate CSR

A Certificate Signing Request (CSR) is needed to request a certificate:

1. Go to SSL/TLS > Generate, view, or delete SSL certificate signing requests
2. Fill in your details (domain, organization, country)
3. Click Generate
4. Save the CSR and private key

Step 2: Request certificate

Use the CSR to request a certificate from a CA. You'll receive:

• The SSL certificate (.crt)
• An intermediate/chain certificate
• Sometimes a root certificate

Step 3: Install certificate

1. Go to SSL/TLS > Manage SSL sites
2. Select your domain
3. Paste the certificate, private key and CA bundle
4. Click Install Certificate

Force HTTPS

After installation, redirect visitors to HTTPS. Add to your .htaccess:

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

Or use a WordPress plugin like Really Simple SSL.

Common problems

Mixed content warnings: your site still loads HTTP resources. Update all internal links to HTTPS.

Certificate not trusted: the CA bundle is missing. Install the intermediate certificate.

Expiration warnings: set up automatic renewal or note the expiration date.