How to Install an SSL Certificate in cPanel at no cost

Many hosting providers, including LetsHost.ie, HostingIreland.ie, and Blacknight.com, do not include free SSL certs with their hosting plans*, with some providers charging as much as €152.99 for a basic, entry-level DV SSL cert, and as much as €287.99 for a Wildcard SSL . This can leave customers searching for affordable solutions to secure their websites.

SmartHost provides a free Let’s Encrypt SSL certificate, including Wildcard SSLs, with every hosting plan, offering exactly the same security levels as these paid DV certificates.

Let’s Encrypt SSL certificates, including those provided for free by SmartHost, offer the same level of security as paid certificates due to the following reasons:

1. Encryption Strength: Both Let’s Encrypt and paid certificates use industry-standard encryption algorithms, typically 2048-bit RSA or 256-bit ECC, ensuring that data transferred between your website and its visitors is securely encrypted.
2. SSL/TLS Protocol Compliance: Let’s Encrypt certificates comply with the SSL/TLS protocols, which are the same standards used by paid certificate authorities (CAs). This means they provide the same robust encryption for data in transit.
3. Trust by Browsers: Let’s Encrypt is a trusted Certificate Authority recognised by all major web browsers. This means that a site secured with a Let’s Encrypt certificate will not trigger any security warnings for visitors, similar to sites secured with paid certificates.
4. Certificate Validation: Let’s Encrypt certificates undergo the same validation processes as paid certificates, verifying the domain ownership before issuance. This ensures that the entity requesting the certificate controls the domain, maintaining security and trust.
5. Automated Renewal: Let’s Encrypt certificates are valid for 90 days, but they support automated renewal, ensuring continuous protection without manual intervention. This automatic renewal feature is available with paid certificates as well.
6. Wildcard Certificates: SmartHost provides Let’s Encrypt Wildcard SSL certificates, which secure all subdomains under a domain, offering the same convenience and security level as paid Wildcard certificates.

The SmartHost SSL Generator tool allows users of other hosting providers to obtain a free SSL certificate, which they can install on their existing hosting plans. The free SSL certificate can cover all domains on a users account including wildcard SSL’s.

Why Choose the SmartHost SSL Generator?

1. Cost-Effective Security: While other hosting providers may charge for SSL certificates, the SmartHost SSL Generator provides them for free. This is particularly beneficial for small businesses and personal websites looking to enhance security without incurring additional costs.
2. Ease of Use: The SSL Generator tool is user-friendly, making it simple to generate the necessary certificate and private key, even for those without technical expertise.
3. Comprehensive Guide: The detailed instructions provided in this guide ensure that you can easily install the SSL certificate on any hosting platform that uses cPanel, including LetsHost.ie, HostingIreland.ie, and Blacknight.

Steps for Users of Other Hosting Providers

1. Generate Your SSL Certificate: Use the SmartHost SSL Generator tool to obtain your free SSL certificate and private key.
2. Access Your Hosting Provider’s cPanel: Log in to your hosting provider’s cPanel account.
3. Navigate to SSL/TLS Manager: Go to the “Security” section and select “SSL/TLS”.
4. Install the Certificate: Follow the steps outlined in the detailed guide above to install your SSL cert using the certificate and private key provided by the SmartHost SSL Generator.

Advantages Over Paid SSL Certificates

• Free of Charge: Save money by using a free SSL cert instead of purchasing one from your hosting provider.
• Immediate Availability: The SSL Generator provides certificates instantly, allowing for quick and easy installation.
• Trusted Security: Let’s Encrypt SSL certificates are widely recognised and trusted, ensuring that your website meets industry-standard security protocols.

SmartHost SSL Benefits

For those considering switching to a hosting provider that includes a free SSL cert with every plan, SmartHost offers a comprehensive solution. Not only do we provide free Let’s Encrypt SSL certificates, but we also ensure seamless integration and support, enhancing your website’s security effortlessly.

The SmartHost SSL Generator tool is an invaluable resource for customers of LetsHost.ie, HostingIreland.ie, and Blacknight who are looking to secure their websites without additional costs. By following this guide, you can easily generate and install a free SSL certi, ensuring your site is protected and trusted by visitors. For a more integrated solution, consider switching to SmartHost, where free SSL certificates are included with every hosting plan. For more information and assistance, visit the SmartHost knowledgebase or contact our support team.