How to Monitor SSL Certificate Expiration
Never let an SSL certificate expire unexpectedly again.
An expired SSL certificate displays a scary security warning to visitors and seriously damages your credibility.
This guide shows you how to configure automatic alerts so you're never caught off guard.
Why It Matters
An expired SSL certificate can have serious consequences:
- Security warning that scares away visitors
- Negative SEO impact (Google penalizes insecure sites)
- Loss of customer trust
- Blocked e-commerce transactions
Configuring Monitoring
SSL monitoring is automatic with MoniTao:
Step 1: Create an HTTPS Monitor
Create an HTTP monitor with your site's HTTPS URL. SSL monitoring is automatically enabled.
Step 2: Configure Alert Threshold
By default, an alert is sent 30 days before expiration. You can adjust this delay.
Step 3: Check SSL Information
The dashboard shows certificate details: issuer, expiration date, days remaining.
Alert Levels
MoniTao sends progressive alerts:
- 30 days before - First alert, comfortable time to renew
- 14 days before - Reminder, action recommended
- 7 days before - Critical alert, urgent renewal needed
Special Case: Let's Encrypt
Let's Encrypt certificates expire every 90 days. MoniTao is particularly useful for detecting when automatic renewal has failed.
Common Scenarios
- Let's Encrypt renewal that silently failed
- Paid certificate forgotten after an employee left
- New domain added without configuring SSL
Summary
- Create an HTTPS monitor for your domain
- SSL monitoring is automatic
- Configure your preferred alert timing
Frequently Asked Questions
Does MoniTao automatically renew my certificates?
No, MoniTao only monitors and alerts. Renewal remains your responsibility or your host's.
Can I monitor a domain with a wildcard certificate?
Yes, create a monitor for any subdomain using the wildcard.
What if my certificate is already expired?
Renew it immediately. MoniTao will continue alerting until renewal.
Is SSL monitoring included in the free plan?
Yes, SSL monitoring is included in all plans.
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