Troubleshooting Installation Issues

SSL installation rarely proceeds without some challenges, but understanding common issues speeds resolution. Certificate chain problems occur when intermediate certificates aren't properly installed. Browsers may cache intermediates, masking the problem during your testing while other users see errors. Use online SSL checkers to verify complete certificate chains from external perspectives. Most installation issues stem from missing or misordered intermediate certificates.

Permission problems frequently plague manual installations. Web servers need read access to certificate files, but these files must be protected from unauthorized access. Certificate files typically need 644 permissions (readable by all, writable by owner), while private keys require 600 permissions (readable only by owner). Ensure web server users can read certificates while protecting private keys from exposure.

Mixed content warnings after SSL installation indicate resources still loading over HTTP. Browser developer tools identify specific resources causing warnings. Update resource URLs in your code, database, and configuration files. Content Security Policy headers can automatically upgrade HTTP requests to HTTPS during migration. For complex sites, consider phased migrations where you fix mixed content incrementally rather than attempting everything simultaneously.

Performance issues sometimes follow SSL installation, though modern servers handle SSL efficiently. Enable SSL session caching to reduce handshake overhead. Implement OCSP stapling to eliminate certificate validation delays. Use modern cipher suites that leverage hardware acceleration. If performance problems persist, consider CDN integration to offload SSL termination from origin servers.

Successfully installing SSL certificates transforms your website from vulnerable to secure, but installation is just the beginning of your SSL journey. The next chapter explores common SSL errors and their solutions, preparing you to maintain reliable HTTPS service for your visitors. Remember that each platform has its nuances, and experience with your specific environment builds confidence and expertise over time.