AutoSSL simplifies securing your website by automatically generating free SSL certificates. In most cases, AutoSSL is enabled by default and installs SSL certificates for your sites if they point to the server. However, there may be cases where you want to manually run it or troubleshoot why it failed.
Follow these steps to enable AutoSSL for your domains:
Steps to Enable AutoSSL in cPanel
1. Log in to Your cPanel Account
Access your cPanel account using your login credentials.
2. Navigate to the SSL/TLS Status Tool
Under the SECURITY section, locate and click on SSL/TLS Status.
3. Select Domains for SSL
Check the boxes for the domains and subdomains you want to secure.
- Click the Run AutoSSL button to initiate the SSL generation process.
- Wait for Validation
The system may take up to an hour to validate the domains and issue SSL certificates. - Verify SSL Installation
Once the process is complete, use an SSL checker tool to confirm the certificate is installed. If your site still shows as “Not Secure” or lacks the padlock symbol, you may need to resolve mixed content issues:
Troubleshooting AutoSSL Issues
If you encounter issues with AutoSSL, the following steps can help:
1. Check for Existing Certificates
AutoSSL won’t overwrite non-AutoSSL certificates, even if they’re expired. To ensure a successful installation:
- Go to SSL/TLS in cPanel.
- Select Manage SSL Sites and remove any old or invalid certificates.
- Run AutoSSL again in the SSL/TLS Status section.
2. Enable Domains for AutoSSL
If a domain or subdomain shows as “Excluded from AutoSSL”:
- Click Include during AutoSSL under Certificate Status.
- Once enabled, the option will switch to Exclude from AutoSSL.
3. Verify DNS Settings
For AutoSSL to validate a domain:
- Ensure the domain’s A record points to your server’s IP.
- Use a DNS checker tool like dnschecker.org to confirm the correct IP address.
If the Nameservers are external but the A records point to your server, check for unnecessary AAAA records (IPv6). Remove any invalid AAAA records that could interfere with the validation process.
4. Address AutoSSL Errors
If you see notifications about errors during the AutoSSL process, you can exclude problematic domains from AutoSSL. This ensures the system can proceed with validating other domains.
5. Missing AutoSSL Button
If the Run AutoSSL button is unavailable in your cPanel:
- This feature might not be included in your account’s Feature List.
- Contact us.
Enabling SSL with AutoSSL ensures your website is secure and provides visitors with a safe browsing experience. If you encounter challenges, our support team is here to assist.
