How to Set Up AutoSSL On A Domain in cPanel

Introduction

When owning a website everyone likes to keep their costs down, one of the most effective ways to achieve this is by using Free SSL certificates provided by LetsEncrypt. These certificates protect sensitive information and boost your site’s credibility and search engine rankings.

What is LetsEncrypt AutoSSL and Why Do You Need It?

Definition of SSL

SSL stands for Secure Sockets Layer. It’s a standard security technology that establishes an encrypted link between a web server and a browser. This makes sure that all data passed between the web server and browsers remains private.

What is Let’sEncrypt AutoSSL?

Let’s Encrypt AutoSSL is a free service that automates obtaining and renewing website SSL certificates to enable HTTPS (SSL/TLS) for websites. AutoSSL is a feature often integrated into web hosting control panels like cPanel, simplifying the management of these certificates by automatically generating, installing, and renewing them without manual intervention.

How to Set Up AutoSSL on Your Domain in cPanel

1. Login to your cPanel Account. If you’re unsure of how to log in to cPanel please follow this article.
2. Once logged in, find the Security section then select SSL/TLS Status.
   
3. If you would like to run SSL for all of your domains select “Run AutoSSL” located at the top
   *This will initiate the process of enabling AutoSSL for your domain.
4. If you would like to run AutoSSL for a certain domain tick the empty boxes(s) on the left-hand side for the domain in question then select “Run AutoSSL” located at the top.
   *This will initiate the process of enabling AutoSSL for your selected domain(s).
   

How to Exclude AutoSSL on Your Domain in cPanel

1. Login to your cPanel Account. If you’re unsure of how to log in to cPanel please follow this article.
2. Once logged in, find the Security section then select SSL/TLS Status.
3. Check the box next to each domain you wish to exclude.
4. Select the “Exclude Domains from AutoSSL” button at the top of the domain list.
   

How to Include AutoSSL on Your Excluded Domain in cPanel

1. Login to your cPanel Account. If you’re unsure of how to log in to cPanel please follow this article.
2. Once logged in, find the Security section then select SSL/TLS Status.
3. Check the box next to each domain you wish to include.
4. Select the “Include Domains from AutoSSL” button at the top of the domain list.
   

Checking Your AutoSSL Certificate Status

1. Login to your cPanel Account. If you’re unsure of how to log in to cPanel please follow this article.
2. Once logged in, find the Security section then select SSL/TLS Status.
3. If your domain has a valid SSL certificate installed you will see a green padlock next to the domain. Under certificate status, it will state when this domain will renew. AutoSSL automatically renews when the expiry date exceeds 30 days.

Conclusion

AutoSSL simplifies the management of SSL certificates, ensuring your website remains secure and trustworthy. Following the steps outlined in this guide, you can easily set up AutoSSL on your domain in cPanel, saving you money and having the benefits of enhanced security + improved SEO rankings.