How do I install a third-party SSL certificate in cPanel?

If you bought an SSL certificate from a certificate authority, you need to install it on your domain in cPanel. This guide walks through adding the certificate, key, and CA bundle.

What you will need #

  • The issued certificate (CRT).
  • The private key created with your CSR.
  • The CA bundle (intermediate certificates).

Installing the certificate #

  1. Log in to cPanel.
  2. In the Security section, open SSL/TLS, then Manage SSL sites.
  3. Select the domain.
  4. Paste the certificate, the private key, and the CA bundle into their fields.
  5. Click Install Certificate.

After installing #

  • Visit your site with https and check for the padlock.
  • Use an online SSL checker to confirm the chain is complete.
  • Force HTTPS so all visitors use the secure version.

Do not skip the CA bundle #

Leaving out the CA bundle is a common mistake that causes trust warnings on some devices even though the certificate is valid. Always include the intermediate certificates your provider supplies.

Troubleshooting #

  • Key mismatch: the certificate and key must be a matching pair from the same CSR.
  • Trust warning: add or correct the CA bundle.

Need help? #

If the certificate will not install cleanly, our support team can help over live chat.

What are your feelings

Your Account