How to install an SSL certificate in Plesk?

Installing an SSL certificate in Plesk is a straightforward process that can be completed in a few steps. Here’s a detailed guide on how to install an SSL certificate in Plesk:

Prerequisites:

1. An SSL certificate: You need to have an SSL certificate purchased from a trusted Certificate Authority (CA).
2. Access to Plesk: You need to have access to your website’s Plesk control panel. If you’re not sure how to access Plesk, contact your hosting provider for assistance.
3. Extracted Certificate Files: Your SSL certificate is typically provided as a zip file containing multiple files, including the certificate file (.crt), the private key file (.key), and the intermediate certificate chain (optional). Extract these files to a secure location on your computer.

Steps to Install an SSL Certificate in Plesk:

1. Navigate to the SSL/TLS/SSH Center: In your Plesk control panel, locate the “SSL/TLS/SSH Center” section. Click on the “SSL/TLS/SSH Center” icon to proceed.
2. Select the Domain: In the SSL/TLS/SSH Center interface, select the domain for which you want to install the SSL certificate.
3. Choose the Installation Mode: Select the installation mode:
   • Import Certificate and Key (Recommended): This method is suitable for most scenarios and involves uploading the certificate files (.crt and .key) and the intermediate certificate chain (if any).
   • Let’s Encrypt / Sectigo Certificate: This option allows you to acquire and install a free SSL certificate from Let’s Encrypt or Sectigo.
   • Import Certificate from PEM: This method is for advanced users who have the certificate files in PEM format.
4. Upload Certificate Files (Import Mode): If you selected the “Import Certificate and Key” mode, click on the “Choose File” button and select the extracted certificate file (.crt) that you obtained from your SSL certificate package. Next, click on the “Choose File” button again and select the extracted private key file (.key). If your certificate has an intermediate certificate chain, locate the intermediate certificate file (.crt) and upload it using the “Intermediate Certificate” section.
5. Configure SSL/TLS Settings: (Optional)
   • Server Alias (Optional): If you want to install the SSL certificate for multiple subdomains, click on the “Add Server Alias” button and provide the subdomain name. Repeat this step for any additional subdomains.
   • Server Name Indication (SNI): Enable SNI if your web server supports it. This allows multiple SSL certificates to be served on a single IP address.
   • HTTP Strict Transport Security (HSTS): Enable HSTS to force all future requests to your website to use HTTPS.
   • SSL/TLS Cipher Suites: Select the appropriate SSL/TLS cipher suites to balance security and compatibility.
6. Install Certificate: Click on the “Install Certificate” button. Plesk will automatically install the SSL certificate and configure your website to use HTTPS.
7. Verify the Installation: Once the installation is complete, you can verify that the SSL certificate is installed correctly by visiting your website and checking the address bar. It should display the “https” protocol and a padlock icon, indicating a secure connection.