Knowledge Base

How to Install an SSL Certificate on a Linux VPS Using the DirectAdmin Control Panel? 

Overview: 
   This guide provides a step-by-step process for installing an SSL certificate on a domain hosted on a Linux VPS using the DirectAdmin control panel. 

 
Prerequisites 

Before you begin, ensure you have the following: 

Procedure 

Step 1: Log in to the DirectAdmin Control Panel 

Log in to DirectAdmin, navigate to the User Level, and select the domain for which you want to install the SSL certificate.  
Then click SSL Certificates under Advanced Features. 
 

Step 2: Enable SSL for the Domain (if not already enabled) 

If SSL is disabled for the selected domain, DirectAdmin will display a message prompting you to enable it.  
Click the provided link ("here") to enable SSL support. 
 

Step 3: Create a Certificate Signing Request (CSR) 

Select the option "Create A Certificate Request" and fill out the CSR form with required details such as: 

Click Save to generate the CSR and private key. 
 
Important: Copy and store both the CSR and private key on your local computer for safekeeping. 
 

Step 4: (Optional) Manually Generate CSR and Private Key via SSH 

If preferred, you can generate your CSR and private key manually using SSH. Log in as root and run: 

/usr/bin/openssl genrsa 2048 > private.key 
 

/usr/bin/openssl req -new -key private.key 
 

You will be prompted for domain-related information during CSR creation. 
  

Step 5: Purchase and obtain the SSL Certificate 

Once the CSR is generated, purchase an SSL certificate from your preferred certificate authority. After issuance, proceed to install the certificate in DirectAdmin. 
 

Step 6: Install the SSL Certificate and Private Key 

Return to the SSL Certificates menu and select "Paste a pre-generated certificate and key." Paste: 

Paste both into the provided text box in that order, then click Save. 
  

Step 7: Install the CA Root Certificate 

Most certificate authorities provide a trusted root certificate or CA bundle. 
In DirectAdmin: 

Verification 

To confirm your SSL certificate installation was successful: