How to Install a Free SSL Certificate

Installing a Free SSL Certificate

An SSL certificate encrypts the connection between your website and visitors, displays the padlock icon in browsers, and is required for HTTPS. All Ellebyte plans include a free SSL certificate.

Auto-SSL (Automatic)

Ellebyte hosting includes AutoSSL powered by cPanel. It automatically provisions and renews Let's Encrypt SSL certificates for all domains and subdomains on your account.

1. Log in to cPanel.
2. Under Security, click SSL/TLS Status.
3. If your domain shows a green padlock, SSL is already active.
4. If it shows as unprotected, click Run AutoSSL to issue the certificate immediately.

Force HTTPS (Redirect HTTP → HTTPS)

After SSL is installed, redirect all HTTP traffic to HTTPS by adding this to your .htaccess file:

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

Or enable it through cPanel → Domains → HTTPS Redirect (if available on your server).

Troubleshooting SSL

• Mixed content warning: Update all internal links in your website from http:// to https://.
• Certificate not renewing: Ensure your domain DNS is pointed to Ellebyte servers. Open a support ticket if the issue persists.
• Padlock not showing: Check for mixed content using browser developer tools (F12 → Console).