Getting around hosts. (SSL Certs)

So recently, i (An apparent noob to looking into a company before buying) started my adventure into a new web host. They only offer an SSL cert from a sponsor, without realizing this.. I bought a cert from a different retailer. Is there any way to install a cert without the specific host installing it on the box? aka getting around the host and their 1 SSL cert company.

I'm a web hosting provider myself, and to answer your question-- it depends on the host. Some hosts allow you to install the SSL cert yourself, some require that they install it for you ( usually for a small fee ). As far as which cert you are able to use, I don't know of any host that has any restrictions on the specific cert that gets installed.
The cert you purchased should be fine, if you are unsure, I'd issue a support ticket and ask. If they do restrict you to just using the SSL's that the provide, then I think I'd look for a new host-- but, that's my opinion.

Let me know if I can help.

How do you install the cert yourself?

I dont think you can, if I recall that requires access to the server that no shared host would ever give you. The bottom line in hosting is that if you wan to have control over the server it needs to be a VPS or dedicated server.

So, i must find someone that is willing to install the cert or just get a VPS or Dedicated. Being that i will be trying to run a store with online transactions. having a cert is a must.. Correct?

Originally Posted by MrFires So, i must find someone that is willing to install the cert or just get a VPS or Dedicated.

I am not a definitive expert on the matter, but I believe so.

Originally Posted by MrFires Being that i will be trying to run a store with online transactions. having a cert is a must.. Correct?

Any site that handles sensitive or private information should always have one.

Well, it does kick me in the pants a little bit.. But i guess that's what i get for not doing homework about my host.

Contact your host. They should do the install for you - most do it without a fee. If they are running a control panel and have the options enabled, you can do the installation directly through your control panel.

I've not heard of hosts restricting users to only purchase through their affiliate/recommended provider before. Seems odd to me.

As for installing the SSL Certificate yourself, if your host has cPanel and has enabled the options, end clients CAN install their own certificates without any help from the host themselves. This requires that the host has previously enabled the option for you however. This is something that we offer on our hosting packages, but not all hosts do this. Most like to provide it as a service to their customers.

Well unfortunately i talked with the host today and it's a no go on my SSL cert. They said we can only buy through their affiliate site. Which was way too expensive for me : /

Make it clear to your host that the SSL cert is the reason you left.

ps. I have two VPS account with Liquid Web (not an affiliate link) and couldn't be happier and I would recommend going with them. They are not cheap though.