The questions people actually ask before buying: SSL, cPanel vs hPanel, support channels, refunds and outages. Short answers below; the buying guides are linked throughout.

SSL at Hostinger

SSL encrypts the browser-server connection (the padlock). Hostinger includes it free and activates it in hPanel → Security → SSL with automatic Let's Encrypt renewal. If the padlock shows broken after activation, it is usually mixed content (http images or scripts), switch those URLs to https or ask support.

Why there is no cPanel

Hostinger built hPanel to drop cPanel licence costs and simplify the experience. Some advanced cPanel features are missing (graphical cron manager, multiple FTP accounts) and cPanel tutorials will not match. In exchange the panel is cleaner and safer for beginners. Need cPanel regardless? Only a VPS lets you install it (licence extra), or pick another host.

Backups and refunds

  • Backups: automatic on Business, Cloud and up; manual or plugin-based on Premium. Restore from hPanel.
  • Refund: 30 days after purchase via support. Free domains and consumed extras may be excluded.
  • Privacy: GDPR applies in the EU and data export is available from the account.

If the site is down

  1. Check Hostinger's status page and the hPanel notice.
  2. Test from another network or with a DNS checker: propagation is the usual culprit.
  3. If it is host-side, open chat and include the domain and timestamps.

FAQ

Does Hostinger have cPanel?

No. Hostinger uses its own hPanel on shared and cloud plans. cPanel is only available if you install it yourself on a VPS with a licence. hPanel covers domains, email, databases, SSL and backups.

Is Hostinger SSL free?

Yes: SSL certificates are free on every plan and install with one click from hPanel (Let's Encrypt, auto-renewing). No cost and no per-domain limit on the hosting plan.

Do I need SSL if the site does not sell?

Yes. Without SSL Chrome flags the site as not secure, browsers block forms and rankings suffer. HTTPS is the baseline for any site in 2026.

How do I contact Hostinger customer service?

Through the 24/7 live chat in hPanel or the contact page. There is no phone line, which is the most common complaint. Chat is answered in English and Spanish.

Does Hostinger refund hosting?

Hostinger offers a 30-day money-back guarantee on hosting after purchase. Free domains and consumed add-ons may be excluded; confirm before buying if you are trialling.

Is Hostinger down right now?

Check the status page and the hPanel banner first. Most 'down' reports are DNS propagation or a local network issue; host-wide outages are rare and communicated on the status page.

Still deciding?

The pricing guide covers plan costs, coupons cover discounts and the reviews page covers alternatives. For WordPress specifically, read the WordPress guide.