This guide outlines how to generate and install a free SSL certificate for your custom domain using ZeroSSL, ensuring your Post Affiliate Pro instance is secure and trustworthy.
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Introduction
To park your custom domain with your Post Affiliate Pro account, an SSL certificate for your domain is required. You can use either a domain-specific certificate (e.g., affiliate.mycompany.com) or a wildcard certificate (e.g., *.mycompany.com). If you wish to avoid the cost of a paid SSL certificate, you can use a free SSL certificate issued by ZeroSSL.
Please note that free certificates generally expire every 90 days and must be renewed manually.
1. Check Your Domain & Create a ZeroSSL Account
Before generating your certificate, ensure your domain is set up correctly.
1. Visit ZeroSSL.
2. Enter your chosen custom domain (e.g., affiliate.mycompany.com) in the "Create Free SSL Certificate" field, then click "Next step".
3. If you don’t have a ZeroSSL account, you’ll be prompted to sign up. Existing users can log in and proceed to the "Certificates" section to start creating a new SSL certificate.
2. Generate Certificate
In the “New Certificate” section, you’ll need to complete the following:
- Domains: Enter only the specific domain you want the certificate for (wildcard certificates are not available on the free plan).
- Validity: Select the 90-day free option.
- CSR & Contact:
- Turn off “Auto-Generate CSR”.
- Enable “Paste Existing CSR”.
- Obtain the required Certificate Signing Request (CSR) from your Post Affiliate Pro Domain settings.
- Finalize Your Order: Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the order.
3. Verify Your Domain
Before the certificate is issued, you must verify domain ownership. ZeroSSL offers three verification methods:
- Email Verification
- DNS (CNAME)
- HTTP File Upload
Choose the method best suited to your setup. If uncertain, consult your server administrator or hosting provider.
4. Install Certificate
Upon successful verification, your SSL certificate will be available for download as a ZIP file. This archive contains:
- The SSL certificate
- The CA bundle (certificate authority chain)
To install:
- Download the certificate ZIP file.
- Log in to your Post Affiliate Pro merchant panel.
- Go to Domain Settings and locate the SSL certificate input fields.
- Upload the certificate and CA bundle as prompted.
- Complete the domain setup in Post Affiliate Pro and finalize the SSL certificate installation within the ZeroSSL dashboard panel.
6. Test your domain by visiting it via https:// to confirm proper SSL installation.
Important Notes
- ZeroSSL Free Limitations: Only three free SSL certificates (90-day validity each) are available per ZeroSSL account. Wildcard certificates are not included in the free plan.
- Manual Renewal: Free SSL certificates must be renewed and reinstalled manually before they expire to maintain secure connections.
- Security: Always keep your private key secure and never share it with unauthorized parties.