By default, when a user accesses a website, the request resolves to port 80, which is the non-secure port for HTTP. To automatically redirect your site to load using HTTPS (port 443), you need to enable a redirect. Fortunately, cPanel's AutoSSL feature simplifies this process, making it easy to force HTTPS redirection for your domains.
Pre-requirements
- Access to your cPanel account.
- An active SSL certificate installed on the domain.
- AutoSSL enabled on your cPanel server.
Steps to Enable HTTPS Redirection in cPanel
- Log into your cPanel account.
- Navigate to the Domains interface under the Domains section.
- Here, you'll see a list of all the domains added to your account.
- Next to the domain for which you want to force HTTPS, look for the toggle that says "Force HTTPS Redirect".
- Toggle this option on to force the site to load over HTTPS automatically.
Important Notes
- You can only enable HTTPS redirection on domains that have a valid SSL certificate installed.
- If you do not see the toggle, ensure that the SSL certificate has been properly installed, or contact your hosting provider for assistance.
- The redirect toggle will not appear for alias (parked) domains, as these domains share the content of another domain.
Conflicts with Content Management Systems (CMS)
It's important to note that some content management systems (CMS), such as WordPress, have their own internal mechanisms for handling HTTPS redirects. This can potentially cause conflicts with cPanel's HTTPS redirection feature, leading to redirect loops or other issues. If you encounter any issues forcing HTTPS on your CMS-based site, consult your developer or refer to the documentation for your CMS.
Additional Resources for CMS Redirects
Forcing HTTPS redirection with cPanel's AutoSSL is a quick and easy way to ensure your website loads securely by default. Be sure to verify that your domain has a valid SSL certificate installed and consult with your developer if you experience issues, particularly if you're using a CMS. Proper configuration will help protect your site and provide a secure browsing experience for your visitors.
