How to Fix ERR_SSL_UNSUPPORTED_COMPRESSION_ALGORITHM
Learn how to resolve the ERR_SSL_UNSUPPORTED_COMPRESSION_ALGORITHM error caused by outdated SSL/TLS protocols or OpenSSL 3.0 restrictions. Find solutions like upgrading tools, enabling the OpenSSL legacy provider, and reconfiguring SSL/TLS settings. Ensure compatibility by diagnosing issues with OpenSSL, server configurations, and software dependencies.
For additional troubleshooting, try our free chatbot designed to assist with technical issues.
Key Takeaways
- The
ERR_SSL_UNSUPPORTED_COMPRESSION_ALGORITHMerror occurs due to SSL/TLS handshake failures caused by an unsupported compression algorithm, often linked to OpenSSL 3.0 restrictions. - The most effective solutions involve upgrading your tools/frameworks or enabling the OpenSSL legacy provider.
- Command-line adjustments can be made for Node.js, React, Angular, and other JavaScript-based frameworks.
- You’ll want to keep all software and dependencies up to date to avoid long-term compatibility issues.
Step-by-Step Guide to Fixing the ERR_SSL_UNSUPPORTED_COMPRESSION_ALGORITHM Error
1. Understand the Core Problem
The ERR_SSL_UNSUPPORTED_COMPRESSION_ALGORITHM error generally appears when:
- A website or software is using outdated or insecure SSL/TLS protocols.
- A modern OpenSSL version (like OpenSSL 3.0) enforces stricter policies, rejecting certain algorithms or inadequate key sizes.
This is a signal that your software or toolchain likely needs attention, especially if you’re integrating with secure environments or APIs.
2. Diagnose the Root Cause
Before jumping into fixes, it’s essential to identify the exact source of the issue.
Check OpenSSL Version:
- Run the following command in your terminal to return your currently installed OpenSSL version:
openssl version - If it’s OpenSSL 3.0 or higher, the issue might involve restrictions around outdated algorithms or key sizes such as SHA-1.
Verify Software and Dependencies:
- Review software libraries like Node.js, React, or Angular for compatibility. These ecosystems often depend on OpenSSL behind the scenes.
Analyze Web Server Settings:
-
For server-side issues, ensure that your SSL/TLS configurations (Nginx, Apache, etc.) allow modern cipher suites without disabled algorithms.
🔗 More on SSL Server Configuration Guidelines (Mozilla TLS Config Generator)
Confirm Browser and OS Compatibility:
- Newer browsers and operating systems enforce stricter SSL/TLS policies. Update these if needed.
3. Resolve the Error
Option A: Upgrade Development Tools and Dependencies
Staying current with software updates helps avoid most SSL/TLS issues.
-
Upgrade Node.js:
Usenvm(Node Version Manager) to update to the latest Long Term Support (LTS) version:nvm install --lts nvm use --lts -
Update JavaScript Frameworks (React, Angular, Vue):
- React example:
npm install react-scripts@latest - Angular example:
ng update @angular/core @angular/cli - Vue example:
npm install vue@latest
- React example:
-
Check Backend Libraries:
Ensure SSL/TLS libraries (e.g., Python’s openssl, Java’s TrustStore, etc.) are compatible with the latest OpenSSL release.
Option B: Enable OpenSSL Legacy Provider
If an immediate upgrade isn’t feasible, OpenSSL 3.0 includes a legacy provider for backward compatibility:
-
Add
--openssl-legacy-providerin Node.js Commands:
In your terminal, run:NODE_OPTIONS=--openssl-legacy-provider npm run start -
Modify
package.json(React App):
Update your scripts section to include the following:"scripts": { "start": "react-scripts --openssl-legacy-provider start", "build": "react-scripts --openssl-legacy-provider build" } -
Applicability for Angular:
Angular apps require adding the --openssl-legacy-provider flag similarly.
Option C: Adjust SSL/TLS Server Configurations
If the issue is server-related:
- Use a properly configured SSL certificate from trusted providers. Consider tools such as NordVPN that offer cutting-edge encryption services.
- Test your SSL/TLS configuration with SSL Labs’ SSL Test.
Option D: Validate and Replace Certificates
- If you suspect certificate issues, use NordPass for secure management.
4. Frequently Asked Questions
What causes the ERR_SSL_UNSUPPORTED_COMPRESSION_ALGORITHM error?
This is primarily due to outdated SSL algorithms or mismatches between the OpenSSL version in use and supported configurations.
Should I always use the OpenSSL legacy provider for this issue?
Not permanently. It should be a temporary workaround while migrating to updated tools and frameworks.
Is this error related to browsers?
Partially, as modern browsers enforce more secure SSL/TLS connections. However, it’s often a development or server-side issue.
Can a VPN solve this issue?
While it’s not directly related, a VPN like NordVPN might help by securing external client connections.
How does updating Node.js resolve the error?
Newer Node.js releases include patches to support OpenSSL 3.0, ensuring smoother compatibility with modern cryptographic standards.
Pro Tips from an SSL Expert
- Avoid Legacy Configurations: Always aim to use modern supported encryption protocols like TLS 1.2 and TLS 1.3.
- Backup Important Data: Before making any configurations, consider tools like MiniTool ShadowMaker to back up critical project files.
- Certificate Renewal: If certificates have expired or use deprecated algorithms, renew them via services like Wondershare Recoverit.
This guide simplifies resolving the ERR_SSL_UNSUPPORTED_COMPRESSION_ALGORITHM error while providing advanced options tailored for developers, sysadmins, and web enthusiasts alike. For further help, reach out to OpenSSL or your framework’s documentation for specific advice.
