How to enable SSL for Joomla

This article describes how to enable SSL for a Joomla site.

Enabling SSL for Joomla

To enable SSL for Joomla, follow these steps:

1. Log in to Joomla as the administrator, and then:
   • For Joomla 3, on the top menu bar, click System, and then click Global Configuration.
   • For Joomla 2.5, on the top menu bar, click Site, and then click Global Configuration.
2. Click the Server tab.

3. Under Server Settings, in the Force SSL list box, select one of the following options:
   

   • To make the administration interface accessible only when using SSL, select Administrator Only.
     For enhanced security, A2 Hosting strongly recommends that you require SSL at least for the administration interface.
   • To make the entire site accessible only when using SSL, select Entire Site.
4. Click Save. SSL is now enabled for Joomla.

Using cPanel SSL with Joomla

Using an SSL certificate from a recognized Certificate Authority is recommended for best results when enabling SSL for Joomla. cPanel SSL is a free, automated, and open certificate authority and is recognized by most modern browsers. cPanel SSL is supported for all new A2 Hosting accounts and certificates can be generated automatically for immediate use. For more information about cPanel SSL, please see the Related Articles section.