In 2025, having an SSL certificate on your website is no longer optional — it’s essential.

• ✅ Browsers mark non-HTTPS sites as “Not Secure”

• 🔐 SSL protects sensitive data (even on simple sites)

• 📈 HTTPS is a confirmed ranking signal in Google SEO

The good news? If you’re hosting with PLiKhost, you get free SSL certificates included with every hosting plan — and installing them via cPanel is quick and easy.

Here’s how to do it, step-by-step.

🧠 What Is SSL and HTTPS?

SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) encrypts the connection between your website and your visitors. When SSL is active:

• Your site URL starts with https://

• A padlock icon appears in the browser

• Data (like login forms, contact forms) is secured

🛠️ Step 1: Log In to Your cPanel

• Go to your PLiKhost client area

• Click “Login to cPanel” under your hosting service

• Look for the section called “Security”

🔐 Step 2: Install Let’s Encrypt (or AutoSSL)

PLiKhost offers Let’s Encrypt SSL (free and automated). You don’t need to buy or upload anything.

1. In cPanel, open SSL/TLS Status

2. Look for your domain(s) in the list

3. If the SSL column shows a red icon or says “No Certificate,” click “Run AutoSSL”

4. Wait a few moments — it will auto-install a certificate

✅ Once completed, you’ll see a green lock or “AutoSSL Domain Validated” status.

Certificates renew automatically every 90 days.

🌐 Step 3: Test Your HTTPS Connection

• Visit https://yourdomain.com

• You should see the green padlock or “Secure” icon

• If not, clear your browser cache and try again

🔁 Step 4: Force HTTPS (Redirect All Traffic)

Even with SSL installed, visitors might still go to http://yourdomain.com.
To fix this, we’ll redirect all HTTP traffic to HTTPS.

Option 1: Use “Force HTTPS” in cPanel

• Go to Domains section in cPanel

• Find your domain and turn on the “Force HTTPS Redirect” toggle

• Done!

Option 2: Manual Redirect via .htaccess (for advanced users)

1. Go to File Manager

2. Open the .htaccess file in your public_html folder

3. Add this code at the top:

4. Save and close

🧪 Bonus: Check SSL Configuration

Use free tools like SSL Labs to test your domain:

• Grade A or A+ is excellent

• Make sure no certificate chain or mixed content errors exist

❗ Troubleshooting Tips

✅ Final Thoughts

Securing your site with HTTPS not only protects your visitors — it builds trust and improves your SEO.

With PLiKhost, installing and forcing HTTPS is just a few clicks away using cPanel and free AutoSSL.

🟢 Need help activating SSL on your site? Our team is ready to assist you anytime.