---
title: "Use Let’s Encrypt for SSL Encryption with Plesk"
source: "https://docs.nexcess.com/hosting/security/ssl/use-lets-encrypt-for-ssl-encryption-with-plesk/"
description: "Learn how to install a free Let's Encrypt SSL certificate on Plesk servers. This guide shows adding the extension to secure your domain."
vertical: "Hosting"
date: "2025-10-29"
last_modified: "2026-07-02"
---

# Use Let’s Encrypt for SSL Encryption with Plesk

Let’s Encrypt is a free, automated, and open certificate authority from the Internet Security Research Group (ISRG). It enables anyone to install a free trusted [SSL Certificate](https://docs.nexcess.com/hosting/security/ssl/what-is-an-ssl-certificate/) on their website and benefit from the enhanced security an encrypted connection provides.

Unlike a self-signed SSL certificate, which also is free and secure (but not verified), a Let’s Encrypt certificate is recognized as fully verified and will display the padlock icon in the address bar of modern browsers.

Certificates issued by Let’s Encrypt automatically renew when they expire. By design, these certificates expire and are renewed much more often than regular paid certificates. If someone compromises your certificate, the shorter certificate lifetime can limit the damage.

## Let’s Encrypt on Plesk Servers

Let’s Encrypt is supported on **Plesk version 12.5** and above. It can be downloaded as an extension directly in the Plesk control panel.

1. Log into your Plesk control panel. If you’re just starting out in Plesk, read [Getting Started with Plesk](https://docs.nexcess.com/hosting/control-panel/plesk/getting-started-with-plesk/) first.
2. Click on the domain or subscription where you want to install an SSL.
3. Click on the Dashboard, then scroll down to the Security section.
4. Click **SSL/TLS Certificates**.

![ssl management](https://docs.nexcess.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/help.liquidweb.com_TDVJab.png)4. Assuming this is the first SSL certificate you are installing for the domain, you should see a message like the one below. Choose to install a free basic certificate provided by Let’s Encrypt.

![requesting a new ssl certificate](https://docs.nexcess.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/help.liquidweb.com_mGRFSX.png)5. Enter a valid email address where you can receive important updates and information about the SSL Certificate (Check the box if you’d also like to secure the webmail site for the domain). Click **Get It Free** to order and install the certificate.

![enter email for ssl certificate](https://docs.nexcess.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/help.liquidweb.com_t0KDd4.png)6. Your certificate will be generated and installed! This will make all the necessary changes and you’ll be able to see the certificate listed in the domain list within Let’s Encrypt. NOTE: This automation requires that your Plesk server handles DNS for the domain. If your DNS is hosted elsewhere, you’ll need to update the DNS records in order for the certificate to be issued. For more information about DNS records, see [Where Is My DNS Hosted?](https://www.liquidweb.com/help-docs/where-is-my-dns-hosted/)