How to Install an SSL Certificate on Your Domain

Installing an SSL certificate on your domain ensures secure communication between your website and visitors by enabling HTTPS. Plesk makes it easy to install and manage SSL certificates. Follow these steps to secure your domain.

Step 1: Log in to Plesk #

1. Open your web browser and go to the Plesk login page.
2. Enter your credentials and click Log in.

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Step 2: Navigate to the Websites & Domains Section #

1. In the Plesk dashboard, locate and click on Websites & Domains.
2. Select the domain for which you want to install an SSL certificate.

Step 3: Open SSL/TLS Settings #

1. Under the selected domain, click SSL/TLS Certificates.
2. This will open the SSL management interface for the domain.

Step 4: Choose a Certificate Option #

You have several options to install an SSL certificate:

1. Let’s Encrypt (Free):
   • Click Install a Free Let’s Encrypt Certificate.
   • Enter your email address for notifications and agree to the terms.
   • Click Install to generate and apply the certificate.
2. Upload an Existing Certificate:
   • Click Upload Certificate.
   • Provide the certificate file (.crt), private key (.key), and any additional CA certificates.
   • Click OK to upload and apply the certificate.
3. Purchase a Certificate:
   • If your hosting provider offers SSL certificates, purchase one directly through the panel.

Step 5: Activate the SSL Certificate #

1. After installing the certificate, return to the SSL/TLS Certificates page.
2. Select the installed certificate from the dropdown menu under Certificate for securing the domain.
3. Ensure the checkbox for Secure webmail on this domain is selected if you want to secure email services as well.
4. Click OK to save.

Step 6: Verify the Installation #

1. Visit your website using https://yourdomain.com.
2. Confirm the presence of a padlock icon in the browser’s address bar, indicating a secure connection.
3. Use tools like SSL Checker to validate your certificate.

Tips #

• Renew Let’s Encrypt certificates every 90 days (Plesk often automates this).
• Use strong private keys and ensure they remain confidential.
• Secure all subdomains by selecting a wildcard SSL certificate, if applicable.