free-ssl-certificates
Website Security

How to Get A Free SSL Certificate for WordPress?

Cassandra 

Securing your WordPress website with an SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) certificate is essential to protect sensitive information, build trust with visitors, and improve your website’s search engine ranking. While SSL certificates were once costly, there are now reliable sources for obtaining free SSL certificates. In this blog, we’ll walk you through the steps to get a free SSL certificate for your WordPress website, ensuring that your visitors’ data is encrypted and your site is labeled as “secure.”

What is an SSL Certificate?

An SSL certificate is a digital certificate that encrypts the data exchanged between a user’s web browser and your website’s server. This encryption ensures that sensitive information, such as login credentials, credit card details, and personal data, remains confidential and cannot be intercepted by malicious actors.

Why do You Need an SSL Certificate?

SSL certificates protect data in transit, preventing eavesdropping and data breaches. A secure website with an SSL certificate displays a padlock icon in the browser’s address bar and uses “https” instead of “http,” instilling trust in visitors. Also, Google considers SSL encryption as a ranking factor, potentially improving your website’s search engine visibility.

Read: Customizing Hosting Features For Optimal Performance

How to Get a Free SSL Certificate for Your WordPress Website?

Many hosting providers offer free SSL certificates as part of their hosting packages. Check if your hosting provider offers a free SSL certificate, and if so, follow their instructions to enable it. Common hosting providers offering free SSL certificates include SiteGround, Bluehost, and HostGator.

Use Let’s Encrypt

Let’s Encrypt is a widely recognized and trusted source for free SSL certificates. To obtain a Let’s Encrypt certificate:

  • Login to Your Hosting Control Panel: Access your hosting control panel, often provided through cPanel or a similar interface.
  • Locate the SSL/TLS Section: Look for an SSL/TLS section within your control panel.
  • Generate a Certificate: Find the option to generate a new certificate or install Let’s Encrypt. Follow the prompts to select your domain and create the certificate.
  • Install the Certificate: Once generated, install the certificate on your website. Your hosting provider’s support or documentation can guide you through this process.

Read: Importance Of Backup and Restore In Web Hosting

Use a WordPress Plugin

If your hosting provider doesn’t offer a free SSL certificate or if you prefer a user-friendly approach, you can use a WordPress plugin to facilitate the process. One such plugin is Really Simple SSL. Here’s how to do it:

  • Install the Plugin: In your WordPress dashboard, navigate to “Plugins” > “Add New.” Search for “Really Simple SSL,” install it, and activate it.
  • Activate SSL: Once activated, the plugin will detect your SSL certificate (if already installed) and offer to activate SSL. Confirm this action.
  • Update Your Settings: After activating SSL, update your website’s settings to use “https” instead of “http.” This ensures that all resources, links, and content load securely.

Cloudflare’s Flexible SSL

Cloudflare is a content delivery network (CDN) that offers a flexible SSL option. While it doesn’t provide a certificate for your server, it acts as an intermediary, encrypting traffic between the visitor and Cloudflare. Here’s how to set it up:

  • Sign Up for Cloudflare: Create an account on Cloudflare’s website and add your website.
  • Configure SSL: In the “Crypto” section of your Cloudflare dashboard, select the “Flexible” SSL option. Cloudflare will encrypt traffic between visitors and their servers.
  • Update DNS Records: Change your domain’s DNS nameservers to point to Cloudflare’s servers. Cloudflare provides the necessary nameservers during setup.
  • Install the Cloudflare Plugin: Install the “Cloudflare” plugin on your WordPress website. Configure it with your Cloudflare credentials.
  • Verify SSL: After DNS changes propagate (which may take up to 48 hours), Cloudflare will provide SSL for your website.

Testing Your SSL Certificate

After obtaining and configuring your SSL certificate, it’s crucial to test it to ensure that it’s working correctly. You can use online tools like Why No Padlock or SSL Labs to verify your certificate’s installation and encryption status.

Conclusion

Securing your WordPress website with a free SSL certificate is a crucial step to protect your users’ data and build trust. Whether you obtain a certificate through your hosting provider, Let’s Encrypt, a WordPress plugin, or Cloudflare, the encryption and added security are well worth the effort. A secure website not only safeguards sensitive information but also enhances your website’s credibility and SEO rankings in the long run.

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