Setting up an SSL certificate in GoDaddy for your WordPress website is a crucial step in securing your online presence. SSL certificates protect data exchanged between users and your website, ensuring that sensitive information like passwords and payment details are encrypted. Having SSL also boosts your SEO ranking as Google prioritizes secure websites. This guide will walk you through the entire process of setting up an SSL certificate on your GoDaddy-hosted WordPress site.
Why You Need an SSL Certificate for Your WordPress Website
SSL certificates are essential for any website, but especially for WordPress websites. They help:
- Encrypt user data to protect against hackers
- Boost SEO rankings, as search engines like Google prioritize secure websites
- Build trust with your audience by showing a secure “HTTPS” status
- Comply with industry standards, particularly for eCommerce websites
How to Set Up SSL Certificate in GoDaddy for WordPress
Setting up an SSL certificate might seem technical, but GoDaddy simplifies the process for users. Follow this step-by-step guide to secure your website.
Step 1: Purchase an SSL Certificate from GoDaddy
Before you can set up an SSL certificate, you need to purchase one from GoDaddy. GoDaddy offers various SSL plans, ranging from basic protection to more advanced options. If you’re running an eCommerce site or storing sensitive user data, it’s a good idea to opt for a more robust SSL certificate.
- Log into your GoDaddy account.
- Go to “My Products” and locate the SSL Certificates section.
- Select a suitable SSL plan and complete the purchase.
Step 2: Assign the SSL Certificate to Your Domain
Once you’ve purchased the SSL certificate, you need to assign it to your WordPress domain hosted on GoDaddy.
- Go to “SSL Certificates” under “My Products.”
- Select “Set Up” next to your SSL certificate.
- Choose the domain you want to assign the SSL certificate to (your WordPress website).
- Click “Submit” to begin the setup process.
Step 3: Verify Domain Ownership
GoDaddy requires you to verify that you own the domain before issuing the SSL certificate. Depending on your settings, GoDaddy offers multiple verification methods, including:
- Email verification: GoDaddy sends a verification email to the email associated with your domain.
- DNS verification: You can add a specific DNS record to your domain’s settings.
- HTML file upload: Upload a verification file to your WordPress root directory.
Step 4: Install the SSL Certificate on Your GoDaddy Hosting Account
After GoDaddy issues your SSL certificate, you need to install it on your WordPress site. Here’s how:
- Go to “My Products” and click “Manage” under the hosting section.
- Access cPanel, and look for the “SSL/TLS” section.
- Click on “Manage SSL Sites.”
- Paste your SSL certificate in the provided fields (Certificate, Private Key, and CA Bundle). GoDaddy will provide these upon issuance.
- Click “Install” to complete the installation.
Step 5: Enable HTTPS for Your WordPress Website
Now that the SSL certificate is installed, it’s time to update your WordPress site to use HTTPS instead of HTTP. You can do this easily by:
- Installing a plugin like “Really Simple SSL” or manually changing your website URL in WordPress settings.
- Go to “Settings” > “General” in your WordPress dashboard.
- Update your WordPress URL and Site Address from “http://” to “https://.”
- Save changes.
Step 6: Test the SSL Configuration
Once you’ve successfully installed the SSL certificate and enabled HTTPS, test to ensure everything is working correctly.
- Use GoDaddy’s SSL checker to verify that the SSL is properly installed.
- Test your site by visiting it using both HTTP and HTTPS. You should be automatically redirected to the HTTPS version.
Common SSL Errors and How to Fix Them
Sometimes, things can go wrong while setting up SSL. Here are some common errors and how to resolve them:
- Mixed content warnings: Some elements on your page (e.g., images) may still load via HTTP. You can fix this by using a plugin like “Better Search Replace” to update old URLs.
- SSL not configured correctly: Double-check your certificate installation and ensure all the correct fields are filled in your hosting control panel.
FAQs About Setting Up SSL Certificate in GoDaddy for WordPress
1. What is an SSL Certificate?
An SSL certificate encrypts data between the server and user, providing a secure connection.
2. Why should I set up an SSL certificate for my WordPress website?
SSL certificates protect user data, improve SEO, and display the secure “HTTPS” label, which builds trust with your visitors.
3. How long does it take to set up SSL in GoDaddy?
It usually takes around 30 minutes to purchase, verify, and install the SSL certificate.
4. Can I use a free SSL certificate for my WordPress website?
Yes, GoDaddy offers free SSL for certain hosting plans, but premium SSL certificates provide enhanced security for sensitive websites.
5. What is mixed content, and how can I fix it?
Mixed content occurs when some elements on a webpage are loaded over HTTP. You can resolve this by updating URLs or using an SSL plugin.
Setting up an SSL certificate in GoDaddy for your WordPress website is vital for ensuring the security of your data and maintaining a professional appearance online. With the step-by-step guide above, you can easily configure SSL, enabling HTTPS and securing your WordPress site.
For more hosting guides, check out our post on How to Set Up SSL Certificate in HostGator Hosting for Your WordPress Site: Step-by-Step Guide.
