How to fix “ERR_SSL_CERTIFICATE_ERROR”. Free immediate support

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How to fix “ERR_SSL_CERTIFICATE_ERROR”. Free immediate support






How to Fix ERR_SSL_CERTIFICATE_ERROR

Learn how to troubleshoot ERR_SSL_CERTIFICATE_ERROR, an issue caused by SSL certificate problems such as expired certificates, invalid configurations, browser cache, or DNS issues. This guide provides straightforward steps like verifying SSL installation, updating certificates, clearing browser data, correcting configurations, and resetting SSL states to resolve the error effectively.

For additional help, use our free chatbot, designed to assist with solving technical issues.

Key Takeaways

  • ERR_SSL_CERTIFICATE_ERROR occurs when your browser fails to trust the SSL certificate installed on the website.
  • Causes include invalid certificates, DNS issues, expired certificates, or browser misconfigurations.
  • Solutions range from correcting SSL installation, updating certificates, clearing browser data, to resetting your browser's SSL state.

Below, you'll find a step-by-step guide to troubleshoot and resolve this issue effectively.

Step-by-Step Guide to Fixing ERR_SSL_CERTIFICATE_ERROR

1. Verify SSL Certificate Installation

To ensure your website's SSL is functioning properly, perform the following checks:

  • Check HTTPS in the URL:
    • Confirm the website uses https://. If not, the SSL certificate is either not installed or misconfigured.
  • Inspect the Padlock Icon:
    • Look for the padlock icon in the browser's address bar. Its absence typically indicates a certificate issue.

External Tool:

You can test your website’s SSL status with tools like SSL Labs to perform a detailed SSL server test.

2. Correct SSL Configuration

Improper SSL configuration can trigger errors. Use the steps below:

  • Ensure Strong Protocols:
    • Use TLS 1.3 or TLS 1.2 for encryption during configuration.
  • Force HTTP to HTTPS Direction:
    • Add the following redirect code to your .htaccess file:
RewriteEngine On
RewriteCond %{HTTPS} !=on
RewriteRule ^/?(.*) https://%{SERVER_NAME}/$1 [R,L]

3. Update an Expired SSL Certificate

Expired certificates are among the most common causes of SSL errors. Try these steps:

  1. Renew the Certificate:
    • Visit your SSL Certificate provider (e.g., Let's Encrypt, GoDaddy, or DigiCert) to renew your certificate.
  2. Implement Changes:
    • Install the new certificate and test it using SSL verification tools.

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Use tools like EaseUS Backup Center to back up your web server before making major changes.

4. Check Your System's Date and Time

Incorrect system time can conflict with your SSL certificates' validity period. Correct it:

  • Windows Users:
    • Right-click time in the toolbar > Select "Adjust date/time" > Enable "Set time automatically."
  • Mac Users:
    • Go to System Preferences > Date & Time > Set date and time automatically.

5. Clear Browser Cache & Cookies

Browsers cache SSL states. Clearing them can resolve persistent errors.

  • Google Chrome:

    1. Navigate to chrome://settings/.
    2. Go to Privacy & Security > Clear Browsing Data.
    3. Select Cookies and Cached files, then click Clear data.

  • For Firefox and Safari, follow Mozilla’s support guide and Apple’s guide respectively.

6. Disable Extensions or Antivirus Software

Browser add-ons or overzealous antivirus applications may block SSL verification.

  • Step 1: Temporarily disable browser extensions:

    • In Chrome: Navigate to chrome://extensions/, toggle off extensions, and reload the page.

  • Step 2: Temporarily disable antivirus applications, particularly features like HTTPS scanning.

Pro Tip: Extensions like VPN blockers can also interfere. Switching to a trusted VPN tool such as NordVPN can stabilize secure connections.

7. Verify DNS Resolution

If your domain is pointing to the wrong IP, SSL validation may fail.

  • Step 1: Use the dig terminal command:
dig yourdomain.com +short
  • Step 2: Check if the returned value matches your server’s IP.

For advanced DNS troubleshooting, tools like Google Public DNS are a good option.

8. Update or Reset Your Browser

Outdated browsers may lack compatibility with modern SSL protocols.

  1. Google Chrome:
    Go to chrome://settings/help to update to the latest version.
  2. Reset SSL State (Windows):
    • Open the Control Panel > Internet Options > Content Tab > Clear SSL State.

9. Inspect Certificate Validity

Browsers give detailed error messages about SSL certificates. Learn how to inspect them:

  • In Chrome:

    1. Click on the "Not Secure" warning next to the address bar.
    2. Select Certificate (invalid) and check key details like expiration dates and issuer.

  • Use Firefox or Safari in a similar way to inspect certificates under "Advanced" > "Certificate."

10. Check for Mixed Content

When your site serves secure and insecure resources, you can get warnings.

  1. Enable Mixed Content Fixes:

    • Review your site using developer tools (Ctrl+Shift+I) to identify non-HTTPS loads.

  2. Automatically scan and fix mixed content on WordPress sites using EaseUS LockMyFile for file control and cleanup.

FAQs

Q1: What causes ERR_SSL_CERTIFICATE_ERROR?
A: It can be caused by expired certificates, DNS resolution errors, incorrect server configurations, or even browser caching issues.

Q2: Can I fix this without renewing my SSL certificate?
A: Only if the error is related to improper configuration, date/time issues, or browser problems. Otherwise, certificate renewal is required.

Q3: Is it safe to disable antivirus temporarily?
A: Yes, but ensure you enable it afterward. Use tools like Malwarebytes to ensure your PC stays protected.

Q4: How do I prevent future SSL errors?
A: Use tools like EaseUS Backup Center to back up your server, set up SSL renewals with auto-reminders, and ensure your site enforces HTTPS globally.

Q5: Should I switch SSL providers?
A: If your current provider lacks critical features like automatic renewal or compatibility, switching to a trusted CA service like DigiCert or Let’s Encrypt is recommended.

By addressing all these aspects methodically, you’ll be able to resolve ERR_SSL_CERTIFICATE_ERROR effectively and maintain a more secure browsing experience.

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