Hostgator SSL Certificate

There are two types of private certificates offered by HostGator: Comodo Positive SSL and Comodo Instant SSL. Comodo SSL certificates are recognized by 92.3% of browsers which will avoid browser warnings and the visual security tools will also show that your website is protected.

What is SSL and What are SSL certificates?

SSL (secure socket layers) encrypts information as it is transferred across the internet. SSL Certificates are small data file that digitally bind a cryptographic key to an organization’s details. When installed on a webserver, it activates the padlock, https (over port 443) and allows secure connections from a webserver to a browser. It is required to be used on e-commerce sites when accepting credit card payments online and any other times you do not want others to eavesdrop on your conversation.

Why do I need a private SSL certificate?

With a private SSL you have a security certificate issued exclusively for your website. By using a private SSL you will avoid the annoying warning message that pops up whenever a visitor tries to access your website via a secure connection (HTTPS).

A private SSL is required, if you plan to set up an online shop and receive payments online. It will also make your customers and visitors feel confident when they submit any sensitive information on your website.

Different between certificates?

The only difference between one SSL type and another is the browser recognition. The Comodo SSL certificates Hostgator provide carry the highest browser recognition in the industry. A few examples of these browsers: Internet Explorer 5.x and above, Firefox 2.x and above, Netscape 4.x and above, AOL 5 and above, Google Chrome, Safari, and Opera 5 and above.

How to buy a Hostgator SSL certificate?

There are two types of private certificates offered by HostGator: Comodo Positive SSL and Comodo Instant SSL.

Positive SSL verifies your domain name and cost $50 per year, but Instant SSL verifies the WHOIS information of your domain and cost $150 per year. Instant SSL guarantee greater security to your visitors, and is suitable for high profile websites.

Once you have decided the type of HostGator Private SSL, you need to fill out the appropriate forms available at the HostGator official website: hostgator.com. The form just requires some basic information, and can be filled within minutes. After you have submitted the form you will have your private SSL.

How to get a Free SSL with HostGator?

HostGator provide Business and Enterprise plans that come with Comodo Positive SSL.  The plans have a slightly higher monthly fee. If you have one of these plans you need to fill out Free Private SSL form at hostgator.com to get your Security certificate.

Installing HostGator Private SSL

Once your purchase is complete, you private SSL is automatically installed by HostGator for free. You only need to add ‘s’ at the end of http in the link name for the web pages you wish to protect.  These pages will then automatically load securely.

In case you buy certificates from other company, you can read the hostgator ssl installation guide.