How do you install a free SSL certificate?

Check the hosting panel for a feature named SSL, AutoSSL, Let’s Encrypt, or Security. Add the domain to the hosting account and point its DNS to the server before requesting the certificate. The certificate authority must validate control of each hostname, so incorrect DNS or a proxy rule can prevent issuance.

Select the root domain and www name, plus every subdomain used by the site. Start the issuance process and wait for the panel to confirm installation. Some providers run automatic issuance on a schedule, so the certificate may appear later. If validation fails, read the detailed message for the specific hostname.

Once the certificate works, set the application URL to HTTPS and add a single redirect from HTTP. Replace insecure internal links and clear caches. Test public pages, the administration area, forms, webhooks, and third-party callbacks because some services store the full site address.

Free certificates have limited validity and depend on automated renewal. Keep DNS validation paths and hosting access working, and monitor expiration even when the provider promises renewal. When the host lacks automated free certificates, use a compatible external certificate process and schedule each manual renewal and installation well in advance.