**Introduction**: SSL certificates encrypt data transmitted between your website and its visitors. They also enable HTTPS and improve trust. This article explains how to install a free SSL certificate using AutoSSL in cPanel and outlines options for purchasing and installing a commercial certificate.
**Prerequisites**: To use AutoSSL, your domain must be pointed to Faciotech’s nameservers or have DNS records that resolve to our hosting servers. AutoSSL issues certificates from the Let’s Encrypt or Sectigo providers; they renew automatically as long as your domain remains pointed correctly.
**Using AutoSSL (recommended)**:
1. Log in to your cPanel account.
2. Navigate to **Security > SSL/TLS Status**.
3. On the SSL/TLS Status page, you will see a list of your domains and subdomains. Ensure the domain you wish to secure is selected and click **Run AutoSSL** (some interfaces provide an “Include Domains During AutoSSL” toggle).
4. cPanel will request and install a free certificate from Let’s Encrypt. When complete, the interface will show a green padlock next to your domain.
Once AutoSSL has finished, test your site by visiting `https://yourdomain.com`. To force all visitors to use HTTPS, you can enable the **Force SSL** option in cPanel or add a redirect rule to your `.htaccess` file (see the article on forcing SSL with `.htaccess` for details).
**Installing a Commercial SSL Certificate**: If you require a dedicated or wildcard certificate, you can purchase one from Faciotech or a trusted certificate authority. After obtaining the certificate and private key, go to **Security > SSL/TLS > Manage SSL Sites** in cPanel, click **Browse Certificates** to select your certificate, paste the private key if required, and click **Install Certificate**. Use this method only when you have the CSR, certificate and key files provided by the issuer.
**Renewal and Maintenance**: AutoSSL will automatically renew your certificate before it expires. For commercial certificates, renew through your provider and re-install the renewed certificate via cPanel. Always keep your contact information and domain configuration up to date to avoid interruptions in HTTPS availability.
Using SSL ensures that your visitors’ data is encrypted and helps improve search-engine ranking and browser trust indicators. If you experience installation issues, contact Faciotech support for assistance.
