Question: How do I install an SSL certificate? Print

This article explains how to install an SSL certificate on your hosting account using Plesk, as GHFS Hosting uses WHMCS + Plesk integration.

1. Check That Your Hosting Plan Supports SSL

Before installing SSL, ensure that:

• Your hosting plan supports HTTPS

• SSL/TLS support is enabled in Plesk

If you are unsure, contact GHFS Hosting support.

2. Install a Free SSL Certificate (Recommended)

Plesk includes built-in support for free SSL certificates such as Let’s Encrypt.

Steps:

1. Log in to your Plesk control panel

2. Select “Websites & Domains”

3. Choose the domain you want to secure

4. Click “SSL/TLS Certificates” or “Let's Encrypt”

5. Enter your email address

6. Select the options you want (www domain, mail domain support, etc.)

7. Click “Install”

Plesk will automatically issue and install the certificate.
Your site will load through HTTPS once activated.

3. Installing a Purchased SSL Certificate (Manual Installation)

If you purchased an SSL certificate (from GHFS Hosting or another provider), follow these steps:

Step 1: Generate a CSR

1. Log in to Plesk

2. Go to “Websites & Domains”

3. Select “SSL/TLS Certificates”

4. Click “Add SSL Certificate”

5. Fill in the domain and organization details

6. Generate CSR

Provide the CSR to the SSL provider to obtain certificate files.

Step 2: Upload the Certificate Files

Your SSL provider will send you:

• Certificate file (CRT)

• CA Bundle (if applicable)

Upload these files in the same “SSL/TLS Certificates” section:

1. Open your certificate in Plesk

2. Upload the CRT and CA Bundle files

3. Save the changes

Step 3: Activate the SSL on Your Domain

1. Go to “Websites & Domains”

2. Click “Hosting Settings”

3. Enable “SSL/TLS Support”

4. Select your newly installed certificate from the dropdown

5. Save the settings

Your SSL certificate will now be active.

4. Forcing HTTPS (Optional but Recommended)

To force all traffic to HTTPS:

1. Go to “Hosting Settings”

2. Check “Permanent SEO-safe 301 Redirect from HTTP to HTTPS”

3. Save the settings

Plesk will automatically redirect all traffic securely.

5. When to Contact GHFS Hosting Support

Contact support if:

• You cannot install the SSL in Plesk

• Your certificate files show errors

• The HTTPS redirect does not work

• Your site still shows SSL warnings

Support can complete the installation for you if needed.