Choosing and buying an SSL certificate

This guide explains when you need a separately purchased certificate instead of the free SSL, how to choose the right product, and how to buy it in the Client Area.

Before you begin

• A domain that you control, and access to its DNS or email for validation.
• Your hosting plan details, so you know whether free SSL is included.
• The names the certificate must cover, such as example.com and www.example.com.

Steps

1. Check whether free SSL is enough. If your hosting plan includes free SSL and the site works with it, you may not need to buy a certificate. See SSL and HTTPS settings.
2. Choose the type you need. Options depend on what APNCloud offers. Check the SSL product page in the Client Area for the validation levels, wildcard and multi-domain options shown.
3. Check the names to cover. List every name the certificate must protect. Add www if your site uses it.
4. Order the certificate. Sign in to the Client Area, choose the SSL certificate, select the options and complete the payment.
5. Prepare the validation. After you order, you may need to confirm that you control the domain. Read Validation and CSR.
6. Keep the order details. Save the order number and the invoice.

Price and terms are not listed here

Prices and terms change. Check the Client Area and the APNCloud website before you buy.

Expected result

You have an order for the certificate type you need, with a status in the Client Area, and you know what validation is required.

If something goes wrong

• The option you need is missing. It may not be offered. Ask support before you buy anything else.
• You ordered the wrong type. Contact support before the certificate is issued, and explain what you need.
• Validation is not completed. Read SSL not working and Validation and CSR.

Related articles

• SSL basics
• Validation and CSR
• Install an SSL certificate on APNCloud Hosting Panel
• Choose and order services

Last reviewed

2026-10-27