Do you want to secure your WordPress website with an SSL certificate? If so, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’ll discuss what an SSL certificate is, why you need one, and how to install an SSL certificate on your WordPress website even if you don’t have access to your hosting account.
What is an SSL Certificate?
An SSL (Secure Socket Layer) certificate is a digital certificate that provides a secure connection between a web server and a web browser. It encrypts all data that passes between the two, making it virtually impossible for hackers to intercept. An SSL certificate also helps to authenticate your website, ensuring visitors that your site is legitimate and trustworthy.
Why Do You Need an SSL Certificate?
There are several reasons why you should secure your WordPress website with an SSL certificate. First, it helps to protect sensitive information, such as credit card numbers and passwords, from being intercepted by malicious actors. It also helps to boost your website’s search engine rankings, as Google now gives preference to websites with SSL certificates. Finally, it gives your visitors peace of mind, as they know that their data is secure.
How to Install an SSL Certificate on Your WordPress Website
Installing an SSL certificate on your WordPress website is relatively easy. However, if you don’t have access to your hosting account, it can be a bit more challenging. Let’s take a look at how to do it.
Step 1: Purchase an SSL Certificate
The first step is to purchase an SSL certificate. You can purchase one from a reputable provider, such as Comodo or Symantec. Prices vary depending on the type of certificate you need, but you can usually find one for around $50 per year.
Step 2: Generate a Certificate Signing Request (CSR)
Once you’ve purchased an SSL certificate, you’ll need to generate a Certificate Signing Request (CSR). This is a block of encrypted text that is generated on the server where the certificate will be installed. To generate a CSR, you’ll need to log into your hosting account and use the server’s control panel.
Step 3: Install the SSL Certificate
Once you’ve generated a CSR, you’ll need to install the SSL certificate. To do this, you’ll need to log into your hosting account and use the server’s control panel. You’ll then need to upload the certificate file and install it.
Step 4: Configure Your WordPress Website
Once you’ve installed the SSL certificate, you’ll need to configure your WordPress website to use it. To do this, you’ll need to log into your WordPress dashboard and navigate to the “Settings” tab. From there, you’ll need to enable the “Force SSL” option.
How to Install an SSL Certificate on Your WordPress Website Without Access to Your Hosting Account
If you don’t have access to your hosting account, you can still install an SSL certificate on your WordPress website. Here’s how.
Step 1: Purchase an SSL Certificate
The first step is to purchase an SSL certificate. You can purchase one from a reputable provider, such as Comodo or Symantec. Prices vary depending on the type of certificate you need, but you can usually find one for around $50 per year.
Step 2: Generate a CSR
Once you’ve purchased an SSL certificate, you’ll need to generate a Certificate Signing Request (CSR). This is a block of encrypted text that is generated on the server where the certificate will be installed. To generate a CSR, you’ll need to use a third-party tool, such as OpenSSL.
Step 3: Install the SSL Certificate
Once you’ve generated a CSR, you’ll need to install the SSL certificate. To do this, you’ll need to log into your hosting account and use the server’s control panel. You’ll then need to upload the certificate file and install it.
Step 4: Configure Your WordPress Website
Once you’ve installed the SSL certificate, you’ll need to configure your WordPress website to use it. To do this, you’ll need to log into your WordPress dashboard and navigate to the “Settings” tab. From there, you’ll need to enable the “Force SSL” option.
Conclusion
Securing your WordPress website with an SSL certificate is essential for protecting your visitors’ data and boosting your website’s search engine rankings. In this article, we’ve discussed what an SSL certificate is, why you need one, and how to install an SSL certificate on your WordPress website even if you don’t have access to your hosting account. With this information, you should now be able to secure your website with an SSL certificate and give your visitors peace of mind.
