# Free SSL on Windows hosting: secure your domain with HTTPS

> Secure your site on HyperDC Windows hosting: point the domain to the server, issue the free SSL certificate in the client area, or upload a certificate you own.

Difficulty: Beginner

Your site should load over HTTPS, and every Windows hosting plan includes a free certificate for it. You manage certificates in the **SSL** tab of your service page.

## Before you start

The A records of `example.com` and `www.example.com` point to the **Server IP address** shown on **Overview**; see [point a domain to your server](/guides/point-domain-to-server).

## Step 1: Issue the free certificate

1. Open **SSL**. The list shows each of your domains with its **State**, its **Expires** date and the **Names** its certificate covers.
2. Select **Issue Free** next to the domain.
3. It can take a moment. Open the tab again to see the result: the **State** becomes **Free Certificate**, and **Names** lists the domain and its `www` name.

**Verify:** `https://example.com` and `https://www.example.com` load with a padlock.

## Step 2: Upload your own certificate (optional)

If you bought a certificate, use it instead of the free one:

1. In the domain's menu, select **Upload Certificate**.
2. Leave **Format** on **PFX File**, choose the **PFX file** and enter the **PFX password**.
3. Select **Upload Certificate**. It takes the place of the current certificate.

**Verify:** `https://example.com` shows your certificate when you open its details in the browser.

To take a certificate away, select **Remove Certificate** in the same menu. The site stops answering over HTTPS until a new certificate is installed.

## Troubleshooting

**An error appears under the domain.** The domain or its `www` name does not point to the server yet, or the change has not reached the whole internet. Check the A records, wait a while and select **Issue Free** again.

**The padlock is missing on some pages.** Those pages still load images or scripts over `http://`. Change those addresses to `https://` in your site.

## Next steps

- Your site's files: [upload files on Windows hosting](/guides/windows-hosting-files-ftp).
- An application on the secured site: [deploy an ASP.NET site](/guides/deploy-aspnet-windows-hosting).

## Frequently asked questions

### Is the certificate really free?

Yes. Every Windows hosting plan includes a free SSL certificate, at no extra cost.

### Does it cover www as well?

Yes. The certificate covers the domain and its www name, so point both to the server first.

### Can I use a certificate I bought?

Yes. Upload it as a PFX file with its password. It takes the place of the current certificate.

### Why does Issue Free fail?

Usually the domain or its www name does not point to the server yet. The SSL tab shows the reason under the domain. Check the A records and try again.

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Source: <https://hyperdc.com/guides/products/windows-hosting-ssl>\
Updated: 2026-11-02