{"id":45620,"date":"2024-05-15T07:00:00","date_gmt":"2024-05-15T14:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/dhblog.dream.press\/blog\/?p=45620"},"modified":"2025-05-21T20:41:04","modified_gmt":"2025-05-22T03:41:04","slug":"really-simple-ssl","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/really-simple-ssl\/","title":{"rendered":"Really Simple SSL: Improve WordPress Security The Easy Way"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>Running a website can be a bit like hosting a haunted-house party: invite people to a kooky mansion, and no one shows up (poltergeists notwithstanding). To make it a success, you need to provide a safe, welcoming environment for your guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>And that\u2019s essentially what <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.dreamhost.com\/blog\/ultimate-guide-ssl-tls\/\" rel=\"noopener\">Really Simple SSL<\/a> does for your site.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1600\" height=\"852\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/05_really_simple_ssl.webp\" alt=\"Banner for Really Simple SSL's plugin with options to download and live preview. \" class=\"wp-image-45623 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/05_really_simple_ssl.webp 1600w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/05_really_simple_ssl-300x160.webp 300w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/05_really_simple_ssl-1024x545.webp 1024w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/05_really_simple_ssl-768x409.webp 768w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/05_really_simple_ssl-1536x818.webp 1536w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/05_really_simple_ssl-600x320.webp 600w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/05_really_simple_ssl-1200x639.webp 1200w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/05_really_simple_ssl-730x389.webp 730w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/05_really_simple_ssl-1460x777.webp 1460w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/05_really_simple_ssl-784x417.webp 784w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/05_really_simple_ssl-1568x835.webp 1568w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/05_really_simple_ssl-877x467.webp 877w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1600px) 100vw, 1600px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1600px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1600\/852;\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>This super-popular WordPress plugin makes it easy for website owners to upgrade to HTTPS. In turn, upgrading helps to maintain visitor security. It also signals to search engines that your site is the hottest ticket in town. Sounds great, doesn\u2019t it?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In this quick guide, we&#8217;ll take a look at what <a href=\"https:\/\/wordpress.org\/plugins\/really-simple-ssl\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Really Simple SSL<\/a> can do, how to install the plugin, and some of the alternatives to consider. Let\u2019s get the party started!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"exact\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">What Is SSL Exactly?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"glossary-term\">\n\t<a\n\t\tclass=\"glossary-term__above-title\"\n\t\thref=\"\"\n\t\ttarget=\"_blank\"\n\t\trel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\n\t>\n\t\t<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 640 512\"><path d=\"M320 32c-8.1 0-16.1 1.4-23.7 4.1L15.8 137.4C6.3 140.9 0 149.9 0 160s6.3 19.1 15.8 22.6l57.9 20.9C57.3 229.3 48 259.8 48 291.9v28.1c0 28.4-10.8 57.7-22.3 80.8c-6.5 13-13.9 25.8-22.5 37.6C0 442.7-.9 448.3 .9 453.4s6 8.9 11.2 10.2l64 16c4.2 1.1 8.7 .3 12.4-2s6.3-6.1 7.1-10.4c8.6-42.8 4.3-81.2-2.1-108.7C90.3 344.3 86 329.8 80 316.5V291.9c0-30.2 10.2-58.7 27.9-81.5c12.9-15.5 29.6-28 49.2-35.7l157-61.7c8.2-3.2 17.5 .8 20.7 9s-.8 17.5-9 20.7l-157 61.7c-12.4 4.9-23.3 12.4-32.2 21.6l159.6 57.6c7.6 2.7 15.6 4.1 23.7 4.1s16.1-1.4 23.7-4.1L624.2 182.6c9.5-3.4 15.8-12.5 15.8-22.6s-6.3-19.1-15.8-22.6L343.7 36.1C336.1 33.4 328.1 32 320 32zM128 408c0 35.3 86 72 192 72s192-36.7 192-72L496.7 262.6 354.5 314c-11.1 4-22.8 6-34.5 6s-23.5-2-34.5-6L143.3 262.6 128 408z\"\/><\/svg>\n\t\t<span><\/span>\n\t\t<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 384 512\"><path d=\"M342.6 233.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-192 192c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0s-12.5-32.8 0-45.3L274.7 256 105.4 86.6c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0l192 192z\"\/><\/svg>\n\t<\/a>\n    <h3>SSL\/TLS<\/h3>\n    <p>SSL stands for secure sockets layer. SSL is a protocol for maintaining a secure connection and protecting sensitive data to keep internet users safe during online transactions, login sequences, and more. Transport layer security (TLS) is the successor to SSL that\u2019s in place today and handles vulnerabilities even more effectively.<\/p>\n            <a\n            href=\"https:\/\/www.dreamhost.com\/glossary\/hosting\/ssl-tls\/\"\n                        class=\"btn btn--white-outline btn--sm btn--round\"\n                                    target=\"_blank\"\n            rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\n            >\n                            Read More                    <\/a>\n\n<\/div>\n\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Secure Sockets Layer, or SSL, is basically the secret handshake of the internet. It\u2019s a cryptographic protocol that ensures that hosting servers and web browsers can talk to each other without any uninvited creeps eavesdropping on the conversation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>On a more technical level, SSL works like this:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>When you visit a website, the hosting server \u201cshakes hands\u201d with your web browser.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The browser then asks the server for an ID.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>In response to incoming requests, the server produces a valid certificate to prove its identity.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>After the certificate has been checked, the server and browser open a secure connection via HTTPS.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Once the connection is established, all data that&#8217;s transferred between the server and the browser is encrypted.<\/li>\n\n\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"2400\" height=\"1557\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/01_the_ssl_handshake.webp\" alt=\"An infographic of the SSL handshake process with steps like Hello, Agreement, Verification, Key Swap, and Data Transfer.\" class=\"wp-image-45624 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/01_the_ssl_handshake.webp 2400w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/01_the_ssl_handshake-300x195.webp 300w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/01_the_ssl_handshake-1024x664.webp 1024w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/01_the_ssl_handshake-768x498.webp 768w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/01_the_ssl_handshake-1536x996.webp 1536w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/01_the_ssl_handshake-2048x1329.webp 2048w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/01_the_ssl_handshake-600x389.webp 600w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/01_the_ssl_handshake-1200x779.webp 1200w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/01_the_ssl_handshake-730x474.webp 730w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/01_the_ssl_handshake-1460x947.webp 1460w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/01_the_ssl_handshake-784x509.webp 784w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/01_the_ssl_handshake-1568x1017.webp 1568w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/01_the_ssl_handshake-877x569.webp 877w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/01_the_ssl_handshake-1754x1138.webp 1754w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 2400px) 100vw, 2400px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 2400px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 2400\/1557;\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>This process ensures that sneaky hackers can\u2019t set up a fake server or spy on your connection to steal any personal information. Plus, search engines tend to prefer sites that are secure in this way.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Fun fact<\/strong>: SSL was replaced a few years ago by TLS (Transport Layer Security). However, because TLS performs the same function, we generally talk about SSL.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"what\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">What Is Really Simple SSL?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Really Simple SSL is a <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/help.dreamhost.com\/hc\/en-us\/articles\/215300817-Managing-WordPress-plugins\" rel=\"noopener\">plugin<\/a> that simplifies setting up SSL on your WordPress website.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>More specifically, the plugin installs a <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/help.dreamhost.com\/hc\/en-us\/articles\/216539548-Adding-a-free-Let-s-Encrypt-certificate\" rel=\"noopener\">free SSL certificate<\/a>, if required, and configures your site to use HTTPS. (With many of our DreamHost <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.dreamhost.com\/hosting\/\" rel=\"noopener\">hosting plans<\/a>, we do this for you.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In addition to this initial set-up process, Really Simple SSL can run a security health check on your hosting server and help you mitigate WordPress&#8217;s weaknesses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It can even notify you about vulnerabilities that pop up in the plugin, theme, and WordPress core updates.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"why\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why Really Simple SSL Is Probably Your Best Option<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>What makes Really Simple SSL the standout choice? There are five main reasons:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>It\u2019s the simplest solution: <\/strong>This plugin lives up to its name. There are multiple ways to set up SSL and HTTPS, but none are as easy and straightforward as using Really Simple SSL.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Intelligent automation: <\/strong>When you set up HTTPS manually, there\u2019s always a chance of introducing the occasional typo. Really Simple SSL helps you avoid this issue by automating much of the process. The automation also extends to troubleshooting mixed content errors and other common issues that arise when you implement SSL\/HTTPS.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>A specialized tool:<\/strong> Many full-featured <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.dreamhost.com\/blog\/best-wordpress-plugins\/\" rel=\"noopener\">security plugins<\/a> include SSL setup as an option. But if your main goal is setting up SSL, Really Simple SSL is completely focused on WordPress HTTPS migrations.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Streamlined performance: <\/strong>While sprawling security plugins sometimes add weight to your site, Really Simple SSL is like a feather. The lightweight nature of this plugin also makes for fewer compatibility problems.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Outstanding reviews: <\/strong>Really Simple SSL has a perfect 5-star average rating, from over 9,000 submissions in the official WordPress Plugin Directory. And at the time of writing, 32 out of 34 issues raised in the past two months have been resolved.<\/li>\n\n\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>These features are pretty compelling, aren\u2019t they? With over five million active installations, it&#8217;s obvious users are enjoying it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"cases\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Really Simple SSL Use Cases<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Not sure whether you <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wordpress-plugins-good-or-bad\/\" rel=\"noopener\">need an SSL plugin<\/a>? To make the answer crystal clear, let\u2019s run through the main use cases for Really Simple SSL:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>New WordPress sites:<\/strong> If you\u2019re starting from scratch, Really Simple SSL can help you make your site secure. The plugin ensures HTTPS is properly configured, helping you to avoid common pitfalls.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Upgrading existing sites to <\/strong><a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.dreamhost.com\/glossary\/hosting\/https\/\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>HTTPS<\/strong><\/a><strong>: <\/strong>If your existing site doesn\u2019t yet run SSL\/HTTPS, you should probably upgrade for improved security and <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.dreamhost.com\/products\/seo-toolkit\/\" rel=\"noopener\">SEO<\/a> benefits. Really Simple SSL automates the transition, so content like images and links are loaded properly via the secure HTTPS protocol.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Sites with mixed HTTP\/HTTPS content: <\/strong>Some WordPress sites end up with an ugly mixture of HTTPS and HTTP content because of site migrations, <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.dreamhost.com\/blog\/common-wordpress-errors\/\" rel=\"noopener\">plugin conflicts<\/a>, or manual HTTPS setups. This can create security vulnerabilities and even break your site. Luckily, Really Simple SSL has a mixed content fixer.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Subdomains that need HTTPS: <\/strong>Maintaining HTTPS across multiple subsites or subdomains can be complicated. Really Simple SSL supports multisite installation, meaning subsites are automatically configured to use HTTPS.<\/li>\n\n\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"article-newsletter article-newsletter--gradient\">\n\n\n<h2>Get Content Delivered Straight to Your Inbox<\/h2><p>Subscribe now to receive all the latest updates, delivered directly to your inbox.<\/p><form class=\"nwsl-form\" id=\"newsletter_block_\" novalidate><div class=\"messages\"><\/div><div class=\"form-group\"><label for=\"input_newsletter_block_\"><input type=\"email\"name=\"email\"id=\"input_newsletter_block_\"placeholder=\"Enter your email address\"novalidatedisabled=\"disabled\"\/><\/label><button type=\"submit\"class=\"btn btn--brand\"disabled=\"disabled\"><span>Sign Me Up!<\/span><svg width=\"21\" height=\"14\" viewBox=\"0 0 21 14\" fill=\"none\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\">\n<path d=\"M13.8523 0.42524L12.9323 1.34521C12.7095 1.56801 12.7132 1.9304 12.9404 2.14865L16.7241 5.7823H0.5625C0.251859 5.7823 0 6.03416 0 6.3448V7.6573C0 7.96794 0.251859 8.2198 0.5625 8.2198H16.7241L12.9405 11.8535C12.7132 12.0717 12.7095 12.4341 12.9323 12.6569L13.8523 13.5769C14.072 13.7965 14.4281 13.7965 14.6478 13.5769L20.8259 7.39879C21.0456 7.17913 21.0456 6.82298 20.8259 6.60327L14.6477 0.42524C14.4281 0.205584 14.0719 0.205584 13.8523 0.42524Z\" fill=\"white\"\/>\n<\/svg>\n<\/button><\/div><\/form><\/div>\n\n\n<h2 id=\"setup\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">How To Set Up Really Simple SSL<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Assuming your site falls into one of these categories above, you should install Really Simple SSL. Here\u2019s your jargon-free quickstart guide:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">1. Install The Plugin<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>To get started, log in to your WordPress Dashboard and navigate to <strong>Plugins &gt; Add New Plugin <\/strong>via the side menu.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"2400\" height=\"863\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/01_plugins_add_new_plugin.webp\" alt=\"Plugins menu from the WordPress sidebar with the button &quot;Add New Plugin&quot; selected. \" class=\"wp-image-45625 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/01_plugins_add_new_plugin.webp 2400w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/01_plugins_add_new_plugin-300x108.webp 300w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/01_plugins_add_new_plugin-1024x368.webp 1024w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/01_plugins_add_new_plugin-768x276.webp 768w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/01_plugins_add_new_plugin-1536x552.webp 1536w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/01_plugins_add_new_plugin-2048x736.webp 2048w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/01_plugins_add_new_plugin-600x216.webp 600w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/01_plugins_add_new_plugin-1200x432.webp 1200w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/01_plugins_add_new_plugin-730x262.webp 730w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/01_plugins_add_new_plugin-1460x525.webp 1460w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/01_plugins_add_new_plugin-784x282.webp 784w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/01_plugins_add_new_plugin-1568x564.webp 1568w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/01_plugins_add_new_plugin-877x315.webp 877w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/01_plugins_add_new_plugin-1754x631.webp 1754w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 2400px) 100vw, 2400px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 2400px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 2400\/863;\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Next, search for <strong>really simple ssl<\/strong> in the search box in the top-right. This is the plugin you\u2019re looking for:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"2400\" height=\"1725\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/02_really_simple_ssl.webp\" alt=\"&quot;really simple ssl&quot; typed into the search bar under &quot;Add Plugins&quot; with the option on the left selected. \" class=\"wp-image-45626 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/02_really_simple_ssl.webp 2400w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/02_really_simple_ssl-300x216.webp 300w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/02_really_simple_ssl-1024x736.webp 1024w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/02_really_simple_ssl-768x552.webp 768w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/02_really_simple_ssl-1536x1104.webp 1536w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/02_really_simple_ssl-2048x1472.webp 2048w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/02_really_simple_ssl-600x431.webp 600w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/02_really_simple_ssl-1200x863.webp 1200w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/02_really_simple_ssl-730x525.webp 730w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/02_really_simple_ssl-1460x1049.webp 1460w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/02_really_simple_ssl-784x564.webp 784w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/02_really_simple_ssl-1568x1127.webp 1568w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/02_really_simple_ssl-877x630.webp 877w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/02_really_simple_ssl-1754x1261.webp 1754w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 2400px) 100vw, 2400px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 2400px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 2400\/1725;\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Tap <strong>Install Now<\/strong>, and then <strong>Activate.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"2400\" height=\"1275\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/03_activate_really_simple_ssl.webp\" alt=\"Dialog box showing the &quot;Activate&quot; blue button highlighted under Really Simple SSL plugin.\" class=\"wp-image-45627 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/03_activate_really_simple_ssl.webp 2400w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/03_activate_really_simple_ssl-300x159.webp 300w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/03_activate_really_simple_ssl-1024x544.webp 1024w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/03_activate_really_simple_ssl-768x408.webp 768w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/03_activate_really_simple_ssl-1536x816.webp 1536w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/03_activate_really_simple_ssl-2048x1088.webp 2048w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/03_activate_really_simple_ssl-600x319.webp 600w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/03_activate_really_simple_ssl-1200x638.webp 1200w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/03_activate_really_simple_ssl-730x388.webp 730w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/03_activate_really_simple_ssl-1460x776.webp 1460w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/03_activate_really_simple_ssl-784x417.webp 784w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/03_activate_really_simple_ssl-1568x833.webp 1568w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/03_activate_really_simple_ssl-877x466.webp 877w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/03_activate_really_simple_ssl-1754x932.webp 1754w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 2400px) 100vw, 2400px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 2400px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 2400\/1275;\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-2-basic-configuration\">2. Basic Configuration<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Once Really Simple SSL is activated, the plugin will scan your site configuration.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Most web hosts today, including DreamHost, provide SSL certificates. If this applies to your hosting plan, you can simply walk through the setup process:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>From your lefthand navigation menu, select <strong>Plugins &gt; Installed Plugins<\/strong>. Type <strong>really simple<\/strong> in the search bar and then select <strong>Settings<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"2400\" height=\"1050\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/04_really_simple_settings.webp\" alt=\"Dialog box showing Really Simple SSL plugin on WordPress with really simple typed in the search bar and &quot;Settings&quot; selected.\" class=\"wp-image-45628 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/04_really_simple_settings.webp 2400w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/04_really_simple_settings-300x131.webp 300w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/04_really_simple_settings-1024x448.webp 1024w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/04_really_simple_settings-768x336.webp 768w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/04_really_simple_settings-1536x672.webp 1536w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/04_really_simple_settings-2048x896.webp 2048w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/04_really_simple_settings-600x263.webp 600w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/04_really_simple_settings-1200x525.webp 1200w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/04_really_simple_settings-730x319.webp 730w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/04_really_simple_settings-1460x639.webp 1460w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/04_really_simple_settings-784x343.webp 784w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/04_really_simple_settings-1568x686.webp 1568w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/04_really_simple_settings-877x384.webp 877w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/04_really_simple_settings-1754x767.webp 1754w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 2400px) 100vw, 2400px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 2400px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 2400\/1050;\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Click the blue <strong>Activate SSL<\/strong> button on the plugin options screen.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Next, enter your web host when prompted. Then click on <strong>Activate SSL<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"2400\" height=\"1650\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/05_activate_ssl.webp\" alt=\"DreamHost entered in the &quot;Hosting Provider&quot; field and the &quot;Activate SSL&quot; button selected.\" class=\"wp-image-45629 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/05_activate_ssl.webp 2400w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/05_activate_ssl-300x206.webp 300w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/05_activate_ssl-1024x704.webp 1024w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/05_activate_ssl-768x528.webp 768w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/05_activate_ssl-1536x1056.webp 1536w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/05_activate_ssl-2048x1408.webp 2048w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/05_activate_ssl-600x413.webp 600w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/05_activate_ssl-1200x825.webp 1200w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/05_activate_ssl-730x502.webp 730w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/05_activate_ssl-1460x1004.webp 1460w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/05_activate_ssl-784x539.webp 784w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/05_activate_ssl-1568x1078.webp 1568w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/05_activate_ssl-877x603.webp 877w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/05_activate_ssl-1754x1206.webp 1754w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 2400px) 100vw, 2400px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 2400px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 2400\/1650;\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Choose whether you want Really Simple SSL\u2019s additional security hardening features. When you\u2019re done, click <strong>Enable<\/strong> (or you can choose to <strong>Skip<\/strong> at this time).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"2400\" height=\"1650\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/06_ssl_features.webp\" alt=\"Dialog box &quot;Thanks for updating!&quot; with information on new Really Simple SSL features and the &quot;Enable&quot; button selected.\" class=\"wp-image-45630 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/06_ssl_features.webp 2400w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/06_ssl_features-300x206.webp 300w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/06_ssl_features-1024x704.webp 1024w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/06_ssl_features-768x528.webp 768w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/06_ssl_features-1536x1056.webp 1536w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/06_ssl_features-2048x1408.webp 2048w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/06_ssl_features-600x413.webp 600w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/06_ssl_features-1200x825.webp 1200w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/06_ssl_features-730x502.webp 730w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/06_ssl_features-1460x1004.webp 1460w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/06_ssl_features-784x539.webp 784w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/06_ssl_features-1568x1078.webp 1568w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/06_ssl_features-877x603.webp 877w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/06_ssl_features-1754x1206.webp 1754w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 2400px) 100vw, 2400px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 2400px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 2400\/1650;\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Now, enter your email address (you need to complete email verification to access certain options).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Choose whether you want to install the optional security and <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.dreamhost.com\/blog\/what-is-domain-privacy-protection\/\" rel=\"noopener\">privacy<\/a> plugins.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Complete the process by clicking <strong>Finish<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>And just like that, you\u2019re done! Your website should now be secure with HTTPS. Test it by typing your website address into your browser, and tapping the icon next to the address. The drop-down should confirm that your site is secure!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Setting Up An SSL Certificate<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Unfortunately, not all web hosting providers give you SSL as a standard feature. But fear not, dear friend! Really Simple SSL allows you to generate a free certificate via Let\u2019s Encrypt.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here\u2019s how to do it:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>After the initial scan, Really Simple SSL will inform you that \u201cNo SSL certificate has been detected.\u201d Click on <strong>Install SSL Certificate.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The plugin will dive deeper to check whether your site is ready for SSL. Assuming you meet the criteria, you can click <strong>Save and Continue.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>To register your SSL certificate, the plugin will then ask you for a contact email address and a few other details. Fill these out, and then click <strong>Save and Continue.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Next, Really Simple SSL will ask you to add information about your hosting management software (e.g., <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.dreamhost.com\/glossary\/hosting\/cpanel\/\" rel=\"noopener\">cPanel<\/a>). Fill out the form, and smash that<strong> Save and Continue<\/strong> button.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>In some cases, you might be asked to verify your <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/help.dreamhost.com\/hc\/en-us\/articles\/360055964552-Viewing-your-DreamHost-DNS-records\" rel=\"noopener\">DNS records<\/a>. The wizard will guide you through any steps you need to take.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Really Simple SSL will generate your SSL certificate. It might install automatically. Otherwise, follow the steps provided by the wizard to install your certificate manually.<\/li>\n\n\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><em>Et voil\u00e0!<\/em><\/strong><em> <\/em>You should be ready to transition to SSL.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Keep in mind that some hosts don\u2019t allow you to generate and install SSL certificates so easily. If you\u2019re encountering problems along the way, <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/really-simple-ssl.com\/install-ssl-certificate\/\" rel=\"noopener\">check this list<\/a> to see if your host supports Really Simple SSL.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">3. Security Checkup<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Once you\u2019ve completed the installation process, it\u2019s worth checking that SSL is working properly.&nbsp;<br>Start by typing in the URL of your website, with <strong>https:\/\/<\/strong> at the beginning. Then click on the <strong>View site information icon <\/strong>to the immediate left of the address bar.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1272\" height=\"942\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/view_site_information.webp\" alt=\"Connection is secure\" class=\"wp-image-45631 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/view_site_information.webp 1272w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/view_site_information-300x222.webp 300w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/view_site_information-1024x758.webp 1024w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/view_site_information-768x569.webp 768w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/view_site_information-600x444.webp 600w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/view_site_information-1200x889.webp 1200w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/view_site_information-730x541.webp 730w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/view_site_information-784x581.webp 784w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/view_site_information-877x649.webp 877w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1272px) 100vw, 1272px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1272px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1272\/942;\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Click <strong>Connection is secure<\/strong> and you should see a \u201cConnection is secure\u201d message.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1256\" height=\"981\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/connection_is_secure.webp\" alt=\"Click Connection is secure\" class=\"wp-image-45632 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/connection_is_secure.webp 1256w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/connection_is_secure-300x234.webp 300w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/connection_is_secure-1024x800.webp 1024w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/connection_is_secure-768x600.webp 768w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/connection_is_secure-600x469.webp 600w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/connection_is_secure-1200x937.webp 1200w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/connection_is_secure-730x570.webp 730w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/connection_is_secure-784x612.webp 784w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/connection_is_secure-877x685.webp 877w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1256px) 100vw, 1256px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1256px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1256\/981;\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>If you encounter problems here, it might be because of <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.dreamhost.com\/blog\/how-to-fix-common-ssl-issues-wordpress\/\" rel=\"noopener\">mixed content errors<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>All good? Next, visit the Really Simple SSL plugin settings under <strong>Settings &gt; SSL &amp; Security<\/strong>. Here, you can run a quick SSL health check.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1677\" height=\"1230\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/SSL-health-check.webp\" alt=\"Health check showing A+ with fields like Valid Certificate and No TLS 1.1. in green. Last check performed 11 hours ago. \" class=\"wp-image-45633 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/SSL-health-check.webp 1677w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/SSL-health-check-300x220.webp 300w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/SSL-health-check-1024x751.webp 1024w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/SSL-health-check-768x563.webp 768w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/SSL-health-check-1536x1127.webp 1536w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/SSL-health-check-600x440.webp 600w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/SSL-health-check-1200x880.webp 1200w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/SSL-health-check-730x535.webp 730w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/SSL-health-check-1460x1071.webp 1460w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/SSL-health-check-784x575.webp 784w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/SSL-health-check-1568x1150.webp 1568w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/SSL-health-check-877x643.webp 877w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1677px) 100vw, 1677px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1677px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1677\/1230;\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>While you\u2019re there, you can also check for any security issues under the vulnerability measures section.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1662\" height=\"1224\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/vulnerability-measures.webp\" alt=\"Vulnerabilities dialog box showing 2 vulnerabilities and 35 updates with button to Learn More and Updates.\" class=\"wp-image-45634 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/vulnerability-measures.webp 1662w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/vulnerability-measures-300x221.webp 300w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/vulnerability-measures-1024x754.webp 1024w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/vulnerability-measures-768x566.webp 768w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/vulnerability-measures-1536x1131.webp 1536w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/vulnerability-measures-600x442.webp 600w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/vulnerability-measures-1200x884.webp 1200w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/vulnerability-measures-730x538.webp 730w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/vulnerability-measures-1460x1075.webp 1460w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/vulnerability-measures-784x577.webp 784w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/vulnerability-measures-1568x1155.webp 1568w, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/vulnerability-measures-877x646.webp 877w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1662px) 100vw, 1662px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1662px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1662\/1224;\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Follow the instructions <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.dreamhost.com\/blog\/secure-your-wordpress-website\/\" rel=\"noopener\">here<\/a> to fortify your site!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"alternatives\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Really Simple SSL Alternatives<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>As you can tell, we love Really Simple SSL. There are other options, though. Here are some of the key alternatives:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Cloudflare (Flexible SSL)<\/strong>: This <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.dreamhost.com\/blog\/guide-using-a-cdn-with-wp\/\" rel=\"noopener\">CDN (content delivery network)<\/a> comes with basic SSL capabilities.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Manual installation:<\/strong> For advanced users who want total control, configuring SSL manually might be a better option.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Other WordPress SSL plugins:<\/strong> Plugins like <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/wordpress.org\/plugins\/ssl-zen\/\" rel=\"noopener\">SSL Zen<\/a> offer extra features, such as email reminders for expiring SSL certificates.<\/li>\n\n\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"faqs\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Really Simple SSL FAQs<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Still have questions? We have answers! Here are some of the most questions we get about Really Simple SSL:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Is Really Simple SSL free?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>All the basic features are free, yes. You only need to pay for advanced security options.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Does Really Simple SSL slow down my website?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>No. This particular plugin is really lightweight. But remember, the encryption of SSL does take a little time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Will Really Simple SSL break my site?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>It shouldn&#8217;t. But it\u2019s worth <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/help.dreamhost.com\/hc\/en-us\/articles\/215089888-WordPress-backup-tools\" rel=\"noopener\">backing up your site<\/a> before you install the plugin. If you have problems, try clearing your browser cache, and make sure you don\u2019t have conflicting <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.dreamhost.com\/blog\/guide-to-redirects\/\" rel=\"noopener\">redirect<\/a> rules in your <strong>.htaccess<\/strong> file.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"secure\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Make WordPress More Secure<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Adding SSL to your site is highly recommended, and Really Simple SSL makes it super easy. With the right hosting provider, you can upgrade your site in minutes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>At DreamHost, all our <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.dreamhost.com\/hosting\/\" rel=\"noopener\">shared hosting plans<\/a> come with SSL certificates. On some plans, like <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.dreamhost.com\/wordpress\/managed\/\" rel=\"noopener\">DreamPress<\/a>, you don\u2019t even need to install the certificate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>We also offer free daily site backups, 100% uptime, and 24\/7 expert support \u2014 starting at just $2.59 per month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Want to try it for yourself? <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.dreamhost.com\/hosting\/\" rel=\"noopener\">Sign up today<\/a> to give your WordPress site the hosting it deserves!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\n\n\n<div\n\tclass=\"article-cta-shared article-cta-small\"\n>\n    <div class=\"tr-img-wrap-outer jsLoading\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"js-img-lazy \" src=\"https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/blog2018\/assets\/img\/lazy-loading-transparent.webp\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/blog2018\/assets\/img\/article-small-ad-cta-placeholder.webp 1x, https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/blog2018\/assets\/img\/article-small-ad-cta-placeholder-x2.webp 2x\"  alt=\"Ad background image\" \/><\/div>\n\n\n\n\n  <div class=\"content-btm\">\n    <h2\n      class=\"h2--md\"\n    >\n      Protect Your Website with DreamHost\n    <\/h2>\n    <p\n      class=\"p--md\"\n    >\n      Our automatic updates and strong security defenses take server management off your hands so you can focus on your customers.\n    <\/p>\n\n            <a\n            href=\"https:\/\/www.dreamhost.com\/wordpress\/\"\n                        class=\"btn btn--white-outline btn--sm btn--round\"\n                                    target=\"_blank\"\n            rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\n            >\n                            Check Out Plans                    <\/a>\n\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Really Simple SSL can improve user trust &#038; save you time. Here\u2019s our guide including how to install the plugin.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1077,"featured_media":45621,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Really Simple SSL can improve user trust & save you time. Here\u2019s our guide including how to install the plugin.","toc_headlines":"[[\"exact\",\"What Is SSL Exactly?\"],[\"what\",\"What Is Really Simple SSL?\"],[\"why\",\"Why Really Simple SSL Is Probably Your Best Option\"],[\"cases\",\"Really Simple SSL Use Cases\"],[\"setup\",\"How To Set Up Really Simple SSL\"],[\"alternatives\",\"Really Simple SSL Alternatives\"],[\"faqs\",\"Really Simple SSL FAQs\"],[\"secure\",\"Make WordPress More Secure\"]]","hide_toc":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[696],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-45620","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-wordpress"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v26.3 (Yoast SEO v27.4) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Really Simple SSL: Improve Your WordPress Security - DreamHost<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Really Simple SSL can improve user trust &amp; save you time. Here\u2019s our guide including how to install the plugin.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/really-simple-ssl\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Really Simple SSL: Enhance Your WordPress Security\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Secure your WordPress site effortlessly with Really Simple SSL. This guide shows you the easy steps to improve your website&#039;s security and protect your data.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/really-simple-ssl\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"DreamHost Blog\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:publisher\" content=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/DreamHost\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2024-05-15T14:00:00+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2025-05-22T03:41:04+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/www.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/1220x628_ogimage_really_simple_ssl.webp\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"1800\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"942\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/webp\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"Jos Velasco\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:title\" content=\"Really Simple SSL: Enhance Your WordPress Security\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:description\" content=\"Secure your WordPress site effortlessly with Really Simple SSL. This guide shows you the easy steps to improve your website&#039;s security and protect your data.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:creator\" content=\"@dreamhost\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:site\" content=\"@dreamhost\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"Jos Velasco\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"11 minutes\" \/>\n<!-- \/ Yoast SEO Premium plugin. -->","yoast_head_json":{"title":"Really Simple SSL: Improve Your WordPress Security - DreamHost","description":"Really Simple SSL can improve user trust & save you time. Here\u2019s our guide including how to install the plugin.","robots":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","max-snippet":"max-snippet:-1","max-image-preview":"max-image-preview:large","max-video-preview":"max-video-preview:-1"},"canonical":"https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/really-simple-ssl\/","og_locale":"en_US","og_type":"article","og_title":"Really Simple SSL: Enhance Your WordPress Security","og_description":"Secure your WordPress site effortlessly with Really Simple SSL. This guide shows you the easy steps to improve your website's security and protect your data.","og_url":"https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/really-simple-ssl\/","og_site_name":"DreamHost Blog","article_publisher":"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/DreamHost\/","article_published_time":"2024-05-15T14:00:00+00:00","article_modified_time":"2025-05-22T03:41:04+00:00","og_image":[{"width":1800,"height":942,"url":"https:\/\/www.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/1220x628_ogimage_really_simple_ssl.webp","type":"image\/webp"}],"author":"Jos Velasco","twitter_card":"summary_large_image","twitter_title":"Really Simple SSL: Enhance Your WordPress Security","twitter_description":"Secure your WordPress site effortlessly with Really Simple SSL. This guide shows you the easy steps to improve your website's security and protect your data.","twitter_creator":"@dreamhost","twitter_site":"@dreamhost","twitter_misc":{"Written by":"Jos Velasco","Est. reading time":"11 minutes"},"schema":{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"Article","@id":"https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/really-simple-ssl\/#article","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/really-simple-ssl\/"},"author":{"name":"Jos Velasco","@id":"https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/#\/schema\/person\/33a01bfa83e29abbe21403d23dd8ea1a"},"headline":"Really Simple SSL: Improve WordPress Security The Easy Way","datePublished":"2024-05-15T14:00:00+00:00","dateModified":"2025-05-22T03:41:04+00:00","mainEntityOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/really-simple-ssl\/"},"wordCount":1751,"publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/#organization"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/really-simple-ssl\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/1460x1095_blog_hero_really_simple_ssl.webp","articleSection":["WordPress"],"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/really-simple-ssl\/","url":"https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/really-simple-ssl\/","name":"Really Simple SSL: Improve Your WordPress Security - DreamHost","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/#website"},"primaryImageOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/really-simple-ssl\/#primaryimage"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/really-simple-ssl\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/1460x1095_blog_hero_really_simple_ssl.webp","datePublished":"2024-05-15T14:00:00+00:00","dateModified":"2025-05-22T03:41:04+00:00","description":"Really Simple SSL can improve user trust & save you time. Here\u2019s our guide including how to install the plugin.","breadcrumb":{"@id":"https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/really-simple-ssl\/#breadcrumb"},"inLanguage":"en-US","potentialAction":[{"@type":"ReadAction","target":["https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/really-simple-ssl\/"]}]},{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/really-simple-ssl\/#primaryimage","url":"https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/1460x1095_blog_hero_really_simple_ssl.webp","contentUrl":"https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/1460x1095_blog_hero_really_simple_ssl.webp","width":1460,"height":1095,"caption":"Really Simple SSL: Improve WordPress Security The Easy Way"},{"@type":"BreadcrumbList","@id":"https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/really-simple-ssl\/#breadcrumb","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"name":"Home","item":"https:\/\/dhblog.dream.press\/blog\/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":2,"name":"Really Simple SSL: Improve WordPress Security The Easy Way"}]},{"@type":"WebSite","@id":"https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/#website","url":"https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/","name":"DreamHost Blog","description":"","publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/#organization"},"potentialAction":[{"@type":"SearchAction","target":{"@type":"EntryPoint","urlTemplate":"https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/?s={search_term_string}"},"query-input":{"@type":"PropertyValueSpecification","valueRequired":true,"valueName":"search_term_string"}}],"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Organization","@id":"https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/#organization","name":"DreamHost","url":"https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/","logo":{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/","url":"https:\/\/dhblog.dream.press\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/01\/dh_logo-blue-2.png","contentUrl":"https:\/\/dhblog.dream.press\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/01\/dh_logo-blue-2.png","width":1200,"height":168,"caption":"DreamHost"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/"},"sameAs":["https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/DreamHost\/","https:\/\/x.com\/dreamhost","https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/dreamhost\/","https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/company\/dreamhost\/","https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/user\/dreamhostusa"]},{"@type":"Person","@id":"https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/#\/schema\/person\/33a01bfa83e29abbe21403d23dd8ea1a","name":"Jos Velasco","image":{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/jos-velasco-150x150.png","url":"https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/jos-velasco-150x150.png","contentUrl":"https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/jos-velasco-150x150.png","caption":"Jos Velasco"},"description":"Jos Velasco is a WordPress Professional Consultant at DreamHost. His responsibilities include helping with advanced WordPress cases, creating training material, and identifying trends impacting the WordPress community. In his free time, he enjoys climbing mountains, eating healthy, and watching drama movies. Follow Jos on LinkedIn: https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/josvelasco\/","url":"https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/author\/josvelasco\/"}]}},"lang":"en","translations":{"en":45620,"es":45637,"de":51722,"pt":56343,"pl":56353,"ru":56362,"uk":56367,"it":68476,"fr":70549,"nl":70578},"pll_sync_post":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/45620","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1077"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=45620"}],"version-history":[{"count":9,"href":"https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/45620\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":63723,"href":"https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/45620\/revisions\/63723"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/45621"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=45620"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=45620"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www-dev.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=45620"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}