SSL Certificates: Essential Guide

A free SSL certificate automatically protects all domains correctly pointed to Squarespace sites. SSL secures connections and prevents unauthorized access to visitor information.

SSL Certificate Requirements:

• Works with Squarespace domains, third-party linked domains, subdomains, and integrated domains
• Domain must be properly linked and under 63 characters
• Domain must point to Squarespace site

Checking SSL Certificate Status:

1. View domain panel for "Issued" status
2. Check SSL panel for "Active" status
3. Visit your site to verify certificate

SSL Security Settings:

Secure (Recommended)

• Redirects all traffic to HTTPS
• Includes HTTPS in sitemap
• Improves SEO through HTTPS indexing
• Requires SSL-compatible browsers

Secure HSTS

• Provides enhanced encryption
• Prevents security breaches
• Recommended alongside Secure setting
• Prevents "connection not private" errors

Insecure

• Allows both HTTP and HTTPS access
• Uses HTTP in sitemap
• Search engines index HTTP version
• Default for pre-October 2016 domains

Technical Specifications:

• Uses Let's Encrypt DV certificates
• 2048-bit encryption (except checkout)
• TLS 1.2 for all HTTPS connections
• 90-day certificate renewal cycle
• Automatic certificate management

Important Notes:

• Checkout pages always use SSL regardless of settings
• Custom code may cause mixed content warnings
• Certificate changes can take up to 72 hours
• Third-party SSL certificates not supported
• All subdomains receive SSL protection

SSL Benefits:

• Enhanced visitor trust
• Data protection
• Improved site speed
• Better SEO performance
• Secure form submissions

Troubleshooting Tips:

• Verify domain linking
• Check DNS records
• Ensure proper subdomain setup
• Monitor certificate status
• Address mixed content warnings

SSL settings modifications may require up to 72 hours to take effect. For persistent issues, consult the troubleshooting guide or contact support.

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