How to add an SSL certificate to a website

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Ready to add an SSL certificate to your site ? This guide will walk you through the process step by step, covering everything from choosing the right SSL to installing and testing it on your server.

Let's get started and move to HTTPS.

Table of contents

Step 1: Choose the Right SSL Certificate Type
Step 2: Purchase or obtain an SSL certificate
Step 3: Generate a Certificate Signing Request (CSR)
Step 4: Install SSL Certificate on Your Web Server
Step 5: Update your site to HTTPS
Step 6: Check SSL Installation
Step 1: Choose the Right SSL Certificate Type
Choosing the right SSL certificate for your website is the first step in ensuring your site is secure. Here are some common types:

Domain Validation (DV) : DV certificates are the easiest and quickest to obtain. They confirm that the applicant owns the domain, but do not provide detailed information about the organization behind the site. This makes them ideal for smaller sites or personal blogs that need basic security.
Organization Validation (OV) : OV certificates are a step up from DV certificates, requiring verification of the organization behind the domain. It is suitable for business sites as it provides an extra layer of trust by displaying the company name in the certificate details.
Extended Validation (EV) : EV certificates offer the mobile app development service highest level of verification and are typically used by large corporations, e-commerce sites, and financial institutions. They undergo rigorous verification to verify the identity of the organization, making them one of the most secure options.
Single Domain : This type covers only one domain, making it ideal if you only have one site with no subdomains.

Multi-Domain : Also known as SAN or UCC certificates, this type is for those who manage multiple domains under one SSL certificate
Tip : When choosing an SSL certificate, consider the structure of your site and your plans for future expansion. Wildcard and multi-domain options provide flexibility if you have multiple subdomains or sites that need to be secured.




Once you have selected the right SSL certificate, the next step is to install and configure it. Follow these steps to ensure your SSL installation goes smoothly.

Step 2: Purchase or obtain an SSL certificate
To get started, you need to purchase an SSL certificate. There are two main options:

Choosing a Reliable SSL Provider : Choose a reliable SSL provider that meets your needs, considering factors such as compatibility, support, and verification levels. Providers such as Sectigo , DigiCert , and GeoTrust are common options, but SSL Dragon offers a wide range of affordable, high-quality SSL certificates with customer support, easy installation guides, and competitive prices.
Free SSL Certificates : Let's Encrypt provides widely used free SSL certificates. These certificates are valid for 90 days, and most hosting providers offer automatic renewal.
Most hosting providers offer SSL certificates as add-ons or even include them for free. If your hosting offers SSL, simply activate it in your hosting control panel.