What Is an SSL Certificate?

An SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) certificate encrypts data transferred between a web browser and a web server. When SSL is active, your website loads over HTTPS instead of HTTP, providing a secure and encrypted connection.

Browsers indicate a secure connection by displaying a padlock icon in the address bar. This reassures visitors that the website is safe to use.

Although commonly referred to as SSL, modern encryption uses TLS (Transport Layer Security). Cloudflare uses TLS encryption while continuing to use the SSL terminology for compatibility.

Why SSL Is Required for Your Website

  • Encrypts sensitive user data

  • Prevents browser “Not Secure” warnings

  • Improves search engine rankings

  • Builds trust with visitors

  • Required for online payments and PCI-DSS compliance

  • Essential for business and eCommerce websites

How to Enable SSL Using Cloudflare

Step 1: Create or Log In to Your Cloudflare Account

Visit the Cloudflare website and create a free account or log in to an existing one. After logging in, you will be taken to the Cloudflare dashboard.

Step 2: Add Your Domain to Cloudflare

From the Account Home page, enter your domain name and click Continue. Cloudflare will automatically scan your current DNS records. Review the records carefully and confirm they are correct.

 

Step 3: Select a Cloudflare Plan

Choose a plan for your domain. The Free plan includes SSL/TLS encryption and is sufficient for most websites. You may upgrade later if advanced features are required.

Step 4: Update Your Domain Nameservers

Cloudflare will provide two nameservers for your domain. These must replace your existing nameservers at your domain registrar.

This step allows Cloudflare to manage DNS and apply SSL encryption. DNS propagation may take up to 24 hours, but it often completes sooner.

 

Step 5: Enable SSL/TLS Encryption Mode

In the Cloudflare dashboard, go to SSL/TLS > Overview.

Select one of the following options:

  • Automatic SSL/TLS – Cloudflare manages encryption automatically

  • Custom SSL/TLS – Allows manual selection of encryption mode

For best security, select Full (Strict). This ensures encrypted communication between Cloudflare and your hosting server using a valid SSL certificate.

 

Step 6: Enable HTTPS Enforcement

Navigate to SSL/TLS > Edge Certificates and enable:

  • Always Use HTTPS – Redirects all traffic to HTTPS

  • Automatic HTTPS Rewrites – Fixes mixed content issues

These settings ensure all visitors access your website securely.

 

Step 7: Verify That SSL Is Working

To confirm SSL is active:

  1. Visit https://yourdomain.com

  2. Check for the padlock icon in the browser

  3. Click the padlock to view certificate details

You may also test SSL using third-party tools or by running the following command:

curl -I https://yourdomain.com

A successful response or HTTPS redirect confirms SSL is enabled.

Step 8 (Optional): Create a Cloudflare Origin SSL Certificate

If your hosting server does not support SSL certificates, Cloudflare allows you to generate an Origin SSL Certificate.

Go to SSL/TLS > Origin Server > Create Certificate, then:

  • Allow Cloudflare to generate the private key and CSR

  • Add your domain and wildcard hostname if needed

  • Choose a validity period (up to 15 years)

Install the provided certificate and private key on your server.

Summary

Cloudflare provides a simple and reliable method to secure your website with SSL encryption. By following the steps above, you can protect user data, improve search engine visibility, and ensure your website meets modern security standards.

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