Even after installing an SSL Certificate on your website, some users may face the NET::ERR_CERT_AUTHORITY_INVALID Error. The name of this Error itself may scare you a lot. But this invalid certificate authority error isn’t something you should panic about.
So today, let’s end this problem by looking into the top 4 ways to fix this NET::ERR_CERT_AUTHORITY_INVALID Error. But before we even jump into the solution, let’s first learn what this Error means and how it occurs.
This Error occurs particularly when your browser can’t verify the validity of your website’s SSL certificate. Or even if you haven’t set up a certificate or using HTTP for your website. This isn’t recommended in terms of security, you shouldn’t run into this Error.
The three primary causes for this NET::ERR_CERT_AUTHORITY_INVALID Error are:
- You’re using a self-signed certificate to save money.
- The certificate comes from a non-trusted source.
- The validity of your certificate has expired.
If the first two reasons are valid, then we recommend you change your approach. Your website’s visitors may run into the NET::ERR_CERT_AUTHORITY_INVALID error. And those browser warnings may scare a lot of users away, which is not a good sign.
And if the last reason is valid, then it’s advisable to renew your certificate. Or you can also automate this process if it’s possible to do so.
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Solve NET::ERR_CERT_AUTHORITY_INVALID Error Easily | Top 4 Methods
So, now that we know the reasons for this Error. Let’s look into the top 4 ways by which we can fix the NET::ERR_CERT_AUTHORITY_INVALID Error
Problems with Certificate
Get a Signed Certificate from a Valid Authority in case you don’t have one. The provider’s validity should not be a compromise when it comes to getting a signed certificate for your website. If you think money is an issue, you can get a free certificate from a valid provider like Let’s Encrypt.
Browsers usually tend to recognize the certificates offered by these valid providers. But for some websites, you will need more than just a free certificate to ensure security and reliability. The main reason being that is free certificates needs renewal very often, which can be cumbersome. On the other hand, Premium certificates offer many other positive perks other than security. Such as insurance in case of data breaches, strong encryption for multiple domains, and so on. And in case you already have a valid SSL certificate, it’s time that you renew it.
Problem with Browser Cache and Cookies:
Another way to fix this issue is by clearing your browser’s cache and cookies, as the Error is more likely to be caused by your web browser attempting to load an outdated cached version of the page.
You can check it easily by accessing the same website using an ‘incognito mode’ if your browser supports that option. You may even try to reload the page to check if this Error disappears. It only takes a second.
Problem with your network or AV:
If you are trying to access the site on a VPN connection or a public network, then it’s most likely that you’ll face this Error. In such cases, the best recommendation is to temporarily turn off your VPN or switch to a more secure network.
You may also face this issue if your antivirus is preventing your browser from loading the site. Then, it’s advisable to temporarily turn off your antivirus software to access the site and later turn it on.
see also: How to Solve VPN Error Code 51 on Windows PC
Problems with different date or time set:
Another common cause of this error is when your computer has the wrong or different date/time set. To clarify, errors with your device’s clock can sometimes interfere with your browser’s ability to verify a website’s certificate.
In that case, the issue can be fixed easily. Just adjust the computer’s clock to the current time and revisiting the website after resolving the issue.
Now, we have successfully completed all these steps. You would have had a clear understanding of the different ways to fix this Error. This Error can take a while to troubleshoot if you’re unaware of the cause. But the steps we mention are always simple and easy to implement. If everything fails, then you can try wiping your SSL state and running an SSL server test.
See Also: 4 Ways to Fix Remote Desktop Error Code 0x204
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