Configuring WordPress to always use SSL

Enabling SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) ensures that all traffic between your WordPress site and visitors is encrypted. This improves security, builds trust, and is essential for SEO. On ruachost.com, you can configure WordPress to always use SSL once you have a valid certificate installed.

Why Force SSL?

• Protects sensitive data (logins, payments, personal info).

• Prevents “Not Secure” browser warnings.

• Improves search engine ranking.

• Builds visitor confidence in your site.

Steps to Configure WordPress to Always Use SSL

Method 1: Update WordPress Settings

1. Log in to WordPress as an administrator.

2. Go to Settings → General.

3. Update both fields:

   • WordPress Address (URL) → https://yourdomain.com

   • Site Address (URL) → https://yourdomain.com

4. Click Save Changes.

5. Log back in using the secure URL.

Method 2: Update via phpMyAdmin (Advanced)

If you cannot access the WordPress dashboard:

1. Log in to cPanel (or your hosting panel).

2. Open phpMyAdmin.

3. Select your WordPress database.

4. Open the wp_options table.

5. Locate and edit the following rows:

   • siteurl → set to https://yourdomain.com

   • home → set to https://yourdomain.com

6. Save changes.

Method 3: Force SSL with .htaccess

To ensure all traffic is redirected to HTTPS:

1. Connect to your site via FTP or File Manager.

2. Open the .htaccess file in your WordPress root directory.

3. Add the following lines at the top:

   <IfModule mod_rewrite.c>
   RewriteEngine On
   RewriteCond %{HTTPS} off
   RewriteRule ^(.*)$ https://%{HTTP_HOST}%{REQUEST_URI} [L,R=301]
   </IfModule>
   

4. Save the file.

5. Test your site → All requests should now redirect to HTTPS.

Important Notes

• Ensure you have a valid SSL certificate installed before forcing HTTPS.

• Incorrect settings may make your site inaccessible, always back up before changes.

• Clear your browser cache and WordPress cache after enabling SSL.