How can I install SSL on my Webflow site for free, instead of paying $80 per year for a certificate from GoDaddy? I find the process intimidating and do not understand the initial steps.

Webflow provides free SSL certificates through Let's Encrypt, so you don’t need to buy one from GoDaddy. Here’s how to enable SSL on your Webflow-hosted site.

1. Enable SSL in Webflow Settings

• Go to Project Settings in your Webflow dashboard.
• Click the Publishing tab.
• Scroll down to SSL and make sure it’s enabled. If it’s off, click the toggle to turn it on.
• Click Save Changes if needed.

2. Update Your DNS Records (If Needed)

If your domain is connected but SSL isn't working, check your DNS settings with your domain provider (e.g., GoDaddy, Namecheap).

• You should have only Webflow's A and CNAME records configured.
• The Webflow A records are:
• 75.2.70.75
• 99.83.190.102
• Your CNAME record should point to proxy-ssl.webflow.com.

3. Republish Your Site

• After enabling SSL and updating DNS, republish your site from Webflow's Designer or Dashboard.
• Click Publish > Select Your Domain > Publish.

4. Verify SSL Is Active

• Visit your website and check if it loads as https://yourdomain.com instead of http://.
• If not, try clearing your browser cache or visiting in an incognito window.
• You can also test using SSL Checker by entering your domain.

5. Set Domain Redirects (Optional)

• Under Project Settings > Publishing, enable "Redirect all traffic to your primary domain" to prevent non-HTTPS versions from loading.

Summary

If you’re hosting your site on Webflow, SSL is free using Let’s Encrypt. Enable SSL in Project Settings, update your DNS records, republish your site, and test for secure loading. If you’re still seeing issues, check your domain provider’s DNS settings or wait for propagation (up to 48 hours).