What is AutoSSL from the cPanel

AutoSSL is a feature in cPanel that automatically issues, installs, and renews a free SSL certificate for your website. It’s designed to ensure your domains are secured without any manual intervention on your part. It eliminates the need to manually purchase, install, and renew SSL certificates, which can be a complex and time-consuming process.

How AutoSSL Works

• Automatic Detection: When you add a new domain or subdomain to your cPanel account, AutoSSL automatically detects it and begins the process of getting a certificate.
• Domain Validation: Before issuing a certificate, AutoSSL performs a domain control validation (DCV) to confirm that you are the rightful owner. It typically does this by adding a temporary file to your website or a special DNS record.
• Issuance and Installation: Once the domain is validated, AutoSSL requests a free certificate from a trusted Certificate Authority (CA), like Let’s Encrypt or Sectigo. It then automatically installs the certificate for all relevant services, including Apache (for your website), Exim (for email), and cPanel itself.
• Automated Renewal: SSL certificates have a limited lifespan (usually around 90 days). AutoSSL runs automatically at regular intervals, typically every few hours, and will renew the certificate for you before it expires, ensuring there is no lapse in security.

Benefits of Using AutoSSL

• Cost-Effective: It provides free SSL certificates, which can save you the expense of purchasing a paid one.
• Time-Saving: The entire process is automated, so you don’t have to worry about the technical details of SSL management.
• Improved Security: By ensuring your website always has a valid SSL certificate, AutoSSL helps protect your users’ data with HTTPS encryption. This is especially important for websites that handle sensitive information like passwords or credit card numbers.
• SEO Boost: Search engines like Google favor websites that use HTTPS, so having a secure site can positively impact your search rankings.