How to Create an HTTPS Website or Web Page

By David A. Wells

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Hypertext transfer protocol secure (HTTPS) is a technology that allows information to be securely transmitted over the Internet. HTTP is the most common method of information transmission. Adding a Secure Socket Layer (SSL) encrypts the information and allows it to be transmitted in a secure fashion. Most credit card processing services use HTTPS to protect the sensitive personal and financial information of their customers.

Step 1

Purchase an SSL certificate. There are a number of companies that offer SSL certificates, including Verisign.com, GoDaddy.com and InstantSSL.com.

Step 2

Generate a certificate signing request (CSR) from your web server. Typically, the easiest way is to contact your web server support desk and ask them to do it for you. Each type of web server is different. Most allow you to generate a CSR with their user interface, but it can be a complicated process.

Step 3

Submit your CSR to the company you purchased your SSL certificate from. Most SSL companies have a form you can copy and paste the CSR into, but you can always paste it into a text document and email it to them.

Step 4

Install your approved SSL certificate on your web server. Once your SSL company verifies your CSR and assigns it to your SSL certificate, they will issue an approved SSL server certificate that must be installed on your web server in order to activate your site security. Again, the easiest way to accomplish this is to contact your web server help desk and ask them to do it for you. Once your SSL certificate is installed you will be able to access your site via HTTPS and your data transfer will be securely encrypted.

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