SSL Certificates on Squarespace
TL;DR:
- SSL certificates come free with every Squarespace website
- No setup needed – SSL activates automatically when you publish your site
- Squarespace handles all renewals automatically
- Your site gets HTTPS and the security padlock icon visitors expect
- Essential for any site collecting data or processing payments
SSL certificates are one of those things you need but don't want to think about. Good news – on Squarespace, you really don't have to.
Every Squarespace site gets an SSL certificate included. It's not an add-on or upgrade. It's just there, working away in the background, keeping your site secure and your visitors happy.
What SSL Does for Your Site
SSL encrypts the connection between your website and anyone visiting it. That means if someone types their email address into your contact form, or enters payment details in your shop, that information can't be intercepted by anyone else.
You'll know SSL is working when you see HTTPS in your web address and a little padlock icon next to it. Visitors look for this – it's become the standard way to check if a site is trustworthy.
How Squarespace Handles SSL
When you connect a custom domain to your Squarespace site, SSL gets set up automatically. Usually takes a few minutes, sometimes up to 24 hours if there are DNS delays.
You don't configure anything. You don't upload certificates. You don't set renewal dates. Squarespace sorts all of that out.
The certificate covers your main domain and any subdomains you're using (like shop.yoursite.com). If you add more domains later, they get their own SSL certificates too.
When SSL Matters Most
SSL is essential if your site:
- Has a contact form
- Collects email addresses
- Processes any payments
- Asks visitors to create accounts
- Handles any personal information
Really though, every website should use SSL now. Google ranks HTTPS sites higher than HTTP ones, and most browsers warn visitors away from non-secure sites.
Checking Your SSL Status
Pop over to your live site and look at the address bar. You should see:
- HTTPS at the start of your URL
- A padlock icon (usually green or grey)
- No security warnings
If something looks off, check your domain settings in Squarespace. Sometimes it takes a bit longer for everything to update after connecting a new domain.
You can also test your SSL setup using online tools like SSL Labs' SSL Test. Just search for "SSL checker" and plug in your domain.
Troubleshooting SSL Issues
Most SSL problems on Squarespace sort themselves out, but here are the common hiccups:
Mixed content warnings happen when your HTTPS site loads some content over HTTP. This usually means old images or embeds that still use HTTP links. Update these to HTTPS versions.
Certificate not trusted errors typically mean your domain's DNS isn't pointing to Squarespace correctly. Double-check your DNS settings with your domain provider.
SSL pending for ages usually indicates DNS propagation delays. If it's been more than 48 hours, contact Squarespace support.
FAQs
Can I use my own SSL certificate on Squarespace?
No, you can't upload your own SSL certificate. Squarespace provides and manages all SSL certificates automatically.
Does SSL cost extra?
No, SSL certificates are included with all Squarespace plans at no additional cost.
What happens if my SSL certificate expires?
It won't. Squarespace automatically renews all SSL certificates before they expire.
Can I turn off SSL?
No, and you wouldn't want to. SSL is always active on Squarespace sites for security and SEO benefits.
Do I need SSL for a simple blog or portfolio site?
Yes. Even basic sites benefit from SSL for visitor trust and search engine rankings.
Jargon Buster
SSL Certificate – A digital file that proves your website's identity and enables encrypted connections
HTTPS – The secure version of HTTP that appears in your web address when SSL is active
Encryption – Scrambling data so only the intended recipient can read it
DNS – The system that connects your domain name to your website's server
Mixed Content – When a secure HTTPS page loads some elements over insecure HTTP
Wrap-up
SSL on Squarespace is refreshingly simple. It's there, it works, and you don't need to manage it. Focus on building your site and creating content – Squarespace has the security side covered.
The automatic setup and renewal means one less technical task on your plate, and your visitors get the secure experience they expect.
Ready to dive deeper into Squarespace? Join Pixelhaze Academy for expert guidance on getting the most from your website.