SSL certificates are vital for encrypting data and building user trust, but they do expire and must be renewed on time to avoid security warnings and SEO penalties. Renewing early ensures continued protection, trust, and compliance. Options include manual and auto-renewal, and switching providers is possible if the certificate type remains the same.

The Secure Sockets Layer or SSL certificates are very important in the website’s security. They safeguard user data and create confidence between the website and the user. But, just like domain names, SSL certificates have expiration dates. Hence, being familiar with how to renew an SSL certificate is key to keeping your website secure.

If your certificate expires, browsers will mark your site as “Not Secure.” It weakens user trust and your search rankings. That’s why renewing on time isn’t merely a technical task — it’s an essential component of website management.

Why SSL Renewal Matters?

Let’s start with why you shouldn’t ignore an expiring certificate.

An expired SSL disrupts encrypted connections. That means sensitive customer data, like passwords or card details, could be exposed. In addition, browsers will start showing warning signs that drive visitors away.

Renewing your certificate ensures the following:

  • Continued encryption of sensitive data
  • Better SEO rankings
  • Uninterrupted trust with users
  • Compliance with security standards

Learning how to renew an SSL certificate should be on every website owner’s checklist.

Also Read: How to Choose the Best SSL Certificate for Your Business Website?

When Should You Renew SSL?

The renewal process should start at least 30 days before the certificate’s expiry. Most providers will send reminders periodically around this time. It’s smart to make the move early to prevent disruptions to service.

Renewing your current SSL certificate early does not shorten your certificate’s validity. A new term starts immediately after the old term ends, so renewing early is no problem.

Your SSL certificate providers will send timely alerts for renewal. This way you will never lose renewal window and keep your site protected.

Also Read: SSL Certificates: How to Fix the ‘Your Connection Is Not Private’ Error

Here’s a simplified walkthrough to help you understand how to renew an SSL certificate easily:

Step 1: Check Certificate Expiry Date

Log in to your control panel or SSL dashboard. Look for your current certificate and check the expiry date. If it’s due in the next 30 days, begin the renewal process.

Step 2: Choose the Same or a New SSL Plan

Most providers let you renew the existing plan or switch to a different one. For example, upgrade from a basic domain validation certificate to a wildcard SSL that covers subdomains.

Pro Tip: Select the plan based on your site’s needs before proceeding.

Step 3: Generate CSR (If Required)

Some renewals require a Certificate Signing Request (CSR) from your hosting panel. This file includes domain details and your server’s public key. Not all renewals need this step—some use auto-renewal with saved CSR data.

Step 4: Domain Validation

You’ll need to verify domain ownership. This is usually done via email, DNS record, or uploading a file to your server.

Pro Tip: Complete this step quickly so your renewal doesn’t get delayed.

Step 5: Download and Install the New Certificate

Once validation is done, the provider issues your renewed certificate. You’ll receive files via email or can download them from your dashboard.

Install these files on your hosting server or cPanel, replacing the old certificate. This step may vary based on your hosting provider.

Step 6: Test Your SSL Installation

Use SSL Labs or your hosting provider’s diagnostic tools to confirm the certificate is installed correctly. If done correctly, your new SSL would be instantly active, and your site will show a secure padlock in the browser.

Is Auto-Renewal of SSL Certificate Possible?

Yes, many platforms offer auto-renewal features. This is the safest way to avoid accidental expiry. Auto-renewals charge you before expiry and reissue certificates automatically after validation.

However, for auto-renewal to function, your payment information and CSR must be up-to-date. Although knowing how to renew the San SL certificate manually is important, the auto-renewal process is time-saving and prevents human errors.

What Happens If You Don’t Renew SSL?

Failing to renew your SSL certificate leads to:

  • Browser warnings like “Your connection is not private.”
  • Loss of SEO ranking and traffic
  • Broken trust with customers
  • Interrupted login or checkout functionality
  • Potential data breaches

For any website—eCommerce, blog, or portfolio—SSL expiration can damage credibility fast. That’s why understanding how to renew an SSL certificate helps you avoid all these risks.

Tips to Ensure Smooth SSL Renewals

To make sure you’re never caught off-guard, follow these tips:

  • Mark your renewal date on a calendar
  • Enable renewal reminders in your SSL dashboard
  • Keep admin emails updated to receive alerts
  • Use auto-renewal where available
  • Store your CSR and private key securely
  • Always test your installation after renewal

Planning goes a long way in keeping your website safe and compliant.

Can You Renew SSL with a Different Provider?

Yes, you can. You may renew your SSL with another company if you are unsatisfied with your current provider. Just ensure that the type of certificate is the same as original. Say you had a wildcard SSL, then you must choose wildcard. You’ll still need to validate your domain and install the certificate after it is issued.

Conclusion

Renewing an SSL certificate for your website is a small step that has a big impact. Do not wait for browser warnings or a dip in traffic. For maintaining security and trust, renew your certificate before it expires. 

With online providers like BigRock, this process becomes more seamless with reminders, customer support, and easy-to-follow instructions on the same platform. Even if you opt for a renewal manually or automatically, staying ahead of expiry dates protects your brand and user data.

Connect with us to know more.