How do I set up SSL hosting using NameCheap for a client site in Webflow?
TL;DR
- Enable SSL in Webflow and add both root and www domains under Custom Domains.
- Update Namecheap DNS by deleting conflicting records and adding Webflow’s A and CNAME records.
- Once DNS is connected, set the www domain as default in Webflow and enable "Require HTTPS."
To set up SSL hosting for a Webflow site using Namecheap, you’ll need to configure your client’s domain settings in Namecheap to point to Webflow while enabling SSL correctly.
1. Enable SSL in Webflow
- Go to Project Settings > Hosting tab.
- Scroll down and enable the “SSL” toggle. This ensures Webflow serves the site over HTTPS.
- Do NOT enable "Require HTTPS" until DNS is fully connected and resolving to Webflow.
2. Add Custom Domain in Webflow
- In the same Hosting tab, under Custom Domains, enter the domain (e.g.,
yourclientdomain.com) and add both the root domain and the www subdomain (yourclientdomain.comandwww.yourclientdomain.com). - Webflow will now display the required A and CNAME records for DNS setup.
3. Update DNS Settings in Namecheap
- Log in to Namecheap, go to Domain List, and click Manage next to the domain.
- Under the Advanced DNS tab:
- Delete any existing A or CNAME records that conflict with Webflow’s required records.
- Add the following A records:
- Host: @
Value: 75.2.70.75 - Host: @
Value: 99.83.190.102
- Host: @
- Add the following CNAME record:
- Host: www
Value: proxy-ssl.webflow.com
- Host: www
4. Set Default Domain in Webflow
- Once DNS is connected (green checkmarks in Webflow), choose either
www.yourclientdomain.comor the root as the Default Domain. - Webflow recommends setting www as the default.
5. Force HTTPS in Webflow
- After confirming that DNS is resolving properly and the SSL certificate is active (site loads over “https”), go back to Webflow Hosting settings.
- Now, enable “Require HTTPS” to automatically redirect all traffic to HTTPS.
6. Wait for DNS Propagation
- DNS changes can take up to 24 to 48 hours, but often complete within an hour.
- Use tools like whatsmydns.net to check if the records have propagated globally.
Summary
To set up SSL hosting for a Webflow site using Namecheap: enable SSL in Webflow, add Webflow’s DNS records in Namecheap, and wait for propagation. After DNS is active, set the default domain and enable "Require HTTPS" in Webflow for full SSL functionality.