How to Install SSL Certificate on Addon or Parked Domains

Securing your website has never been more important, especially when managing addon or parked domains. An SSL certificate protects sensitive data, enhances your site's credibility, and boosts SEO rankings. This guide will show you how to easily purchase and install an SSL certificate on addon or parked domains.

• Why SSL Matters for Addon Domains
• Types of SSL Certificates for Addon and Parked Domains
• Install SSL Certificate on Addon or Parked Domains
• Key Considerations When Installing SSL on Addon or Parked Domains
• Common Issues with SSL Installation and How to Fix Them
• Summary

Why SSL Matters for Addon Domains

SSL certificates are essential for encrypting data transferred between your website and visitors. Without SSL, browsers could flag your site as insecure, leading to a loss of trust and potential traffic. SSL on addon domains ensures that your entire online presence, including any domains added to your account, is protected. Whether managing a blog, an eCommerce store, or a portfolio, adding SSL certificates to your addon domains is critical for ensuring security and trustworthiness.

Types of SSL Certificates for Addon and Parked Domains

Before you purchase an SSL certificate, it's important to understand the different types available:

1. Single-Domain SSL Certificate: Secures one specific domain.
2. Wildcard SSL Certificate: Secures your primary domain and all its subdomains under a single certificate.
3. Multi-Domain SSL Certificate (SAN): Secures multiple domains and subdomains, making it ideal if you have multiple addon domains.

For addon domains, consider a multi-domain SSL certificate or wildcard SSL certificate if you need to secure several domains within your hosting account.

Install SSL Certificate on Addon or Parked Domains

1. Log into your Bluehost Account Manager.
2. Purchase the SSL certificate. Bluehost offers easy-to-install SSL certificates, but you can also purchase from third-party providers.
3. Once you've purchased the certificate, follow the installation instructions; if you buy from third-party providers, install it in your cPanel.
4. After installation, visit your addon domain and check if the padlock icon appears next to the URL in your browser's address bar. This indicates the SSL is correctly installed.

For a more thorough check, use online tools like SSL Checker to ensure everything is configured correctly.

Key Considerations When Installing SSL on Addon or Parked Domains

• Limitations on SSL Certificates: While you can install an SSL certificate on addon or parked domains, most hosting accounts allow only one SSL certificate per domain. If you need to secure multiple domains, consider using a multi-domain or wildcard certificate, which can cover several domains or subdomains under a single certificate.
• Compatibility with Parked Domains: SSL certificates are for active websites and parked domains that redirect to your primary site. When securing a parked domain, the SSL certificate ensures that users visiting the parked domain will still have a secure connection before being redirected. Even though the domain is not actively hosting content, securing the redirection ensures safety and trust.

Common Issues with SSL Installation and How to Fix Them

Sometimes, users encounter issues when installing SSL certificates. Here are a few common problems and troubleshooting tips:

• The SSL Certificate Isn't Showing as Active:
  Ensure the SSL is applied correctly through. If the padlock icon doesn't appear in the browser, it could be a sign the certificate wasn't installed properly. Try reinstalling the certificate or contact our support team for help.
• Mixed Content Warning:
  After installing the SSL certificate, some pages can still load up insecure content- for example, images or scripts- that load over HTTP instead of HTTPS. To avoid this, edit your website to use HTTPS or an SSL plugin for WordPress to force a secure URL everywhere.
• SSL Certificate Expired:
  SSL certificates expire, typically after one year. If you're nearing the expiry date, renew your certificate to avoid any security warnings for visitors.

Summary

We've covered the importance of SSL certificates for addon and parked domains, the types of SSL certificates available, and how to install one easily on your domains. Whether you're securing an addon domain, a parked domain, or both, SSL certificates are essential for maintaining website security, building trust with visitors, and improving search engine rankings.