How Do I Renew My SSL Certificate?

If you're getting alerts that your SSL has expired or is about to expire and you need help renewing it, here are some useful tips.

Renewing your SSL certificate is essential to maintaining a secure connection for your website, but it’s a process that needs to be handled outside of Diib. While Diib can alert you about SSL expiration, you’ll need to work with your hosting provider or SSL certificate issuer to renew it. Here’s how to get it done:


Steps to Renew Your SSL Certificate

  1. Check with Your Hosting Provider
    Most hosting companies offer SSL certificates and have tools for easy renewal. Log in to your hosting account and navigate to the SSL section to check renewal options.

  2. Contact Your Certificate Issuer
    If you purchased your SSL certificate from a third-party provider (e.g., GoDaddy, Let’s Encrypt, or DigiCert), visit their website and log in to your account to initiate the renewal.

  3. Generate a New CSR (Certificate Signing Request)
    Some providers may ask you to generate a new CSR during the renewal process. This can usually be done in your hosting control panel or server settings.

  4. Pay for the Renewal (if applicable)
    Renewing your SSL might involve a fee, depending on your provider. Free options like Let’s Encrypt also require renewal, though there’s no cost.

  5. Install the New Certificate
    After renewing, you’ll need to install the updated certificate on your website. Hosting providers often automate this step, but check their instructions if you need to do it manually.

  6. Verify the Installation
    Use online tools like SSL Checker to ensure your certificate is installed correctly and valid.


Why Diib Might Alert You About Your SSL

Diib monitors your website’s health and alerts you about potential issues, including SSL certificate status. Here’s why you might see an SSL-related alert:

  • Upcoming Expiration: Even if your SSL is set to auto-renew, Diib may still flag it if the system hasn’t detected confirmation of renewal yet. It’s a proactive warning to ensure there’s no downtime.
  • Recognition Delays: Sometimes, it takes time for changes like SSL renewal to propagate. If you’ve renewed your certificate and still see an alert, check back in a few days.
  • Misconfigured SSL Settings: If your SSL isn’t installed properly or is inaccessible to our crawler, Diib might show a warning. Use an SSL checker to confirm proper installation.
  • Wildcard or Multi-Domain SSLs: These types of certificates can sometimes confuse monitoring tools if they cover multiple subdomains or are renewed differently.

Tips for Smooth SSL Renewal

  • Set a Reminder: SSL certificates usually expire every year or two. Set a calendar alert so you don’t forget to renew.
  • Consider Auto-Renewal: Many hosting providers and issuers offer automatic renewal to save you time and hassle.
  • Act Early: Renew your SSL a few weeks before expiration to avoid downtime or browser warnings.

Why Diib Can’t Renew Your SSL

Diib helps monitor your website’s health, but we don’t manage SSL certificates directly. If you receive a warning about your SSL, it’s best to follow up with your hosting provider or SSL issuer to ensure everything is up to date.

With these steps and tips, you can handle your SSL certificate renewal confidently and keep your website secure. Diib will continue to monitor your site and keep you informed of any important changes!