When learning how to Install an SSL Certificate, it may sound complicated, but it is relatively straightforward, and Domains.co.za makes the process as easy as possible so you can keep your site and visitors’ data safe. Below is a step-by-step guide to install an SSL certificate for your website and additional resources to make the installation process easier. 

How to Install an SSL Certificate 

1. Acquire SSL Certificate: You can purchase or obtain an SSL certificate or get a free certificate from Domains.co.za when you sign up for Web or WordPress Hosting.
2. Generate CSR: Create a CSR (Certificate Signing Request) on your web server. This involves generating a CSR file containing information about your business and domain containing a private and public encryption key.
3. Submit CSR: Send the CSR to the chosen CA and complete their verification process. Once validated, you will receive the SSL certificate files.
4. Upload Certificate Files: Use your hosting provider’s control panel or server interface to upload or paste the SSL certificate files to the designated location. Domains.co.za will take care of this for you.
5. Update Server Configuration: Modify your web server settings to use the SSL certificate. This may involve updating virtual host configurations and security settings and specifying the SSL certificate location.
6. Test SSL Installation: Verify the SSL configuration using online SSL checkers or browser tools to ensure the certificate is installed correctly.
7. Configure Website to Use HTTPS: Update your website’s configuration to use HTTPS; this may involve updating internal links and ensuring all resources are loaded securely.

You can also access video demonstrations for generating a CSR and how to install an SSL certificate for the most common server configurations below: 

Various Server Installations

How to Install SSL Certificates

Apache Server	Ubuntu Server with Apache2
Microsoft Exchange 2016	Microsoft IIS – IIS 6
Microsoft IIS – IIS 7	Microsoft IIS – IIS 8/8.5
Microsoft IIS – IIS 10	Tomcat Server

Additional instructions for Certificate Signing Requests on other web servers are also available. 

NOTE: If you have an ISP, they will generate the CSR file on request. To view the demonstrations for generating CSRs and installing certificates, please click on the links below: 

Generate CSR Demos 

CSR Generation for Apache

CSR Generation

CSR Generation for IIS7

CSR Generation for Exchange 2010

Additional Information 

• Regularly monitor and renew the SSL certificate’s expiration date before it expires to maintain continuous security. 
• Specific steps may vary based on your hosting provider, server type, and the type of SSL certificate authority you choose. 
• Many hosting providers and services, like Domains.co.za, offer simplified interfaces for SSL installation, making the process accessible even to users with limited technical expertise.