How to Fix the NET::ERR_CERT_AUTHORITY_INVALID Error

Posted on September 11th, 2023

The “NET::ERR_CERT_AUTHORITY_INVALID” error looks very dangerous and impossible at first. One of the most common issues for this error is an inappropriate SSL(Secure Sockets Layer) or invalid certificate of authority. This error can impact a negative effect on the consumers and users, which will directly affect your website traffic. In simple words, the browser cannot identify or recognize the certificate of validity. So, we should not worry about the issue because we can solve this error using several techniques. In this article, we will discuss the “NET::ERR_CERT_AUTHORITY_INVALID” error in brief. Then we also learn how to solve this error on your WordPress Website. So, let’s dive in and understand the error first.

What is NET::ERR_CERT_AUTHORITY_INVALID Error?

The SSL is an essential certificate to keep our website cyber attack free. It also helps us to secure the DATA, and we can easily install an SSL on any WordPress website. As we discussed in upon section, this error is coming for a specific reason, like Invalid SSL. Here, we divided the cause of the error into two parts. This error can occur because of your website and the client’s device. Go through all the reasons. It will help you to solve your issue or understand the “NET::ERR_CERT_AUTHORITY_INVALID” error.

Error Type: SSL Connection or Authentication issue

Error Code: NET::ERR_CERT_AUTHORITY_INVALID

Error Cause: Expired SSL Certificate, Compromised Certificates, Invalid Domain Address, Less-Secure Internet Connection, Device Browser Issue.

Error Variants:

  • NET::ERR_CERT_INVALID
  • NET::ERR_CERT_COMMON_NAME_INVALID
  • NET::ERR_CERT_DATE_INVALID
  • SEC_ERROR_UNKNOWN_ISSUER
  • DLG_FLAGS_SEC_CERTDATE_INVALID
  • NET::ERR_CERT_AUTHORITY_INVALID

Common Issues On The Website

This section explains all the website issues which can be a reason for the NET::ERR_CERT_AUTHORITY_INVALID error. 

  • Self-Signed SSL Certificate: People often use self-signed SSL certificates, which can be cost-effective. But sometimes, this certificate can’t provide authority and trust. Visitors use many different browsers, and each browser will first look for valid authority certificates.
  • Expired SSL Certificate: The SSL certificate comes with different periods. It depends on your SSL certificate provider. Usually, SSL certificates come with 1 year or higher validity. Still, we can face the expiration issue if we don’t enable auto-renewal. There are many authority persons and web hosts available that provide free SSL Certificates and Auto-renew options.
  • Invalid Authority Certificate: It mostly happens with self-signed SSL Certificates. When the browser checks for an SSL certificate and finds an invalid or untrustworthy certificate, it will return an unknown error message. 
  • Certificate Not Properly Installed: Sometimes, the browser finds SSL or Authority certificates. And it can not find the authority certificate, but you know you installed an SSL certificate. Then, after installing the SSL Certificate, you switch your website from HTTP to HTTPS. So we must be sure that our website’s SSL certificate is installed without any errors. 

When a visitor visits a website with a Right SSL Certificate, the browser must validate the SSL and decrypt it for further processing. If the browser faces some errors in the process, it will receive a warning.

Common issues on the Client Side

As we discussed in the upon section, there are many causes of this error on your website. But if you have checked everything about your website, visitors still need help with this issue. Then it must be something different issue than you think. For example, this error can occur if the browser finds problems on the client side. So we list here that explains all the causes which can interrupt this process.

  • Outdated Operating System: Sometimes, the browser does not authorize the request due to the old operating system. The visitor’s device, browser, and versions matter. 
  • Outdated Browser and Cache: As we discussed in upon cause, the visitor’s browser’s version also matters for the error. Just like that, the cache saved by the browser can cause this error due to outdated data.
  • Third-Party Apps and Extensions: Many free and paid third-party apps and extensions are available in the market. We use them for our better help, like a tool, Colour Picker, VPNs, and Antivirus programs. These can be the primary cause of this error. Because they can interfere with our connectivity and website loading speed. 
  • Less-Secure Internet Connection: A Secure Internet Connection is one of the most priority requirements for a browser or server. It happens especially when visitors access the website using any public WIFI, Free WIFI. These places and traffic on WIFI could be more secure.

Browsers and Error Variants

All the different browsers like Google Chrome, Opera, Mozilla Firefox, Microsoft Edge, and Safari will display the error differently. Still, it’s not ended here. Your Operating System and all the certificate configuration also matters for this error. And each error related to SSL and other variants will appear per the browser. So, let’s see some of the most used browsers and their error names.

Google Chrome

Google Chrome is one of the most used browsers by people nowadays. However, visitors face some SSL issues whenever they try to access the website. As a result, this browser will show an error: Your connection is not private, as shown in the image below. And just below the error details, you can see the error code.

We can still access the website by clicking on the list available at last called Proceed to Domain name. Which means you can access the website at your own risk. Here, we also mansions the error variant for google chrome.

  • NET::ERR_CERT_INVALID
  • SSL CERTIFICATE ERROR
  • NET::ERR_CERT_DATE_INVALID
  • NET::ERR_CERT_COMMON_NAME_INVALID
  • NET::ERR_CERT_WEAK_SIGNATURE_ALGORITHM
  • NET::ERR_CERTIFICATE_TRANSPARENCY_REQUIRED

Microsoft Edge

It is a default browser that comes with the windows operating system. Unfortunately, this browser also displays an error similar to Google Chrome. You’ll see a warning message as Your Connection is Private for the error NET::ERR_CERT_AUTHORITY_INVALID. Here you can see the error message in the below image. 

Like the Google Chrome browser, we can also access the website using edge. But it will be an unsafe method. Just click on the last available link as Continue to the domain name (unsafe). The Edge browser also displays all the error code variants as below. Please go through it to understand the error code.

  • NET::ERR_CERT_COMMON_NAME_INVALID
  • DLG_FLAGS_SEC_CERTDATE_INVALID
  • DLG_FLAGS_SEC_CERT_CN_INVALID
  • DLG_FLAGS_INVALID_CA
  • ERROR CODE: 0

Mozilla Firefox

It is also one of the most used web browsers after Google Chrome. In terms of explaining any error, Mozilla Firefox is always better than any other available browser. So, the user or the visitor can understand the risk or the error. Most people got panic when they see errors without any extra information. But working with Mozilla Firefox, users will always catch the information about the blunder, as you can see in the image below. 

All the errors and their variants also appear in the same way. It will come with a complete guide about the error cause and how we solve it. Here you can see other error variants. To access the website, you need to click on the Advanced button, then click on Accept the Risk and Continue. 

  • MOZILLA_PKIX_ERROR_KEY_PINNING_FAILURE
  • SSL_ERROR_RX_MALFORMED_HANDSHAKE
  • SEC_ERROR_REUSED_ISSUER_AND_SERIAL
  • SSL_ERROR_UNSUPPORTED_VERSION
  • SEC_ERROR_UNKNOWN_ISSUER

Safari

Similar to Microsoft Edge, Safari is a default browser for Apple devices. Safari also provides detailed explanations of errors and their variations. So, each time user faces the error on the safari browser, it shows an error like This Connection Is Not Private as shown in the image below.

Safari has some different approaches to displaying errors. For example, if the browser finds the issue on the website SSL Certificate, it will immediately ask to go back. You can also see the certificate by clicking on View the Certificate to see the certificate. If you still want to access the website, click on Visit This Website. The safari browser will not show any error code as we discussed in other browsers. 

Fix NET::ERR_CERT_AUTHORITY_INVALID Error

As we discussed in upon section, each browser has a different way of showing this error and its variants. The best browser you can use is Mozilla Firefox because it offers a complete description of the error and error code. The user will quickly understand the error and try to resolve it as per the error. 

In this section, we will learn the ways to solve the NET::ERR_CERT_AUTHORITY_INVALID error. We already discussed and understood this error and its causes. Each time this error or any variant doesn’t come just because of the SSL or website issue. Many types of reasons are available on the client side. So, let’s dive in and resolve this error using several solutions. Here we listed different methods which are here to resolve NET::ERR_CERT_AUTHORITY_INVALID and its variants. Once you understand the error, choose the resolving method per your needs.

SSL Certificate-Related Issues

This section will show you how to resolve the NET::ERR_CERT_AUTHORITY_INVALID error if there’s a server-side issue. The methods listed here will be helpful if you understand the error and if it has an SSL-related issue.

Method 1: Test SSL Certificate

As we’re discussing the Website’s SSL-related issues, we’ll test the website’s SSL Certificate in the first method. There are dozens of Free SSL Providers and Checkers available on the internet. These tools will briefly give perfect information about our website and its SSL certificate and Security Related information. We have several SSL Certificate checker tools like Qualys, SSL Shopper, Digicert, ClickSSL, SSL2Buy, etc. We’ll use the SSL Shopper SSL Checker tool in this tutorial. Let’s dive in and learn how to check the Website’s SSL Certificate and test the issues. 

Step 1: Open any web browser you have, then go to the google search engine. Then, search for SSL Shopper. Then, click on the second link available as  SSL Checker, as shown in the image below.

Step 2: You will redirect to the SSL Checker page that contains a field. Click on the search field and type your website address. Then, Click on the Check SSL button, as you can see in the image below.

Step 3: Wait a couple of minutes while the tool gathers information about your website. Then, it will show all the information just below the field. Interserver.net is an entirely secure website without any errors. If your website has any error, it will show a red cross with details of the issue. 

Step 4: Here, you can see the certificate expiry date and browser support. All the certificates are also listed below the checklist. See the below image as a reference.

In case you find any errors listed with a red cross or Warnings listed with a Yellow symbol. You need to read them and understand what it is trying to say. All green right symbol means your currently not facing any SSL-related issues.

You can see all the SSL-related details on this page, as discussed in the last 3-4 steps. Once you understand the need, you can search for the solution on google. If you have a self-generated SSL Certificate, it will display a warning about the issue. Now let’s learn how to apply new SSL Certificate on your website if your SSL Certificate s expired or add a new SSL certificate if you have a warning message with your SSL Certificate.

Method 2: Renew SSL Certificate

This section will teach us how to renew our website’s SSL Certificate. We prefer this method if your website has an expired SSL certificate or your SSL certificate is Self Signed. To install or renew an SSL Certificate, we have serval ways. The first and easiest method can be using your website’s hosting provider panel. Each hosting service provider provides basic features like Installing and updating the SSL certificates for your website. The second option is using cPanel. We have a different article on How to install an SSL Certificate using cPanel. Check this out and learn how to install an SSL certificate on your WordPress website. 

We recommend following the first option, asking your hosting provider about the SSL Certificate. Because that will be the easiest method to install an SSL certificate on your website. Another way is to purchase it from any authorised and trustable SSL Provider. There are many on the internet, as we discussed in upon section. All you need to do is create an account and add your domain details. Then follow the steps and verify your domain, or see this tutorial, Really Simple SSL. There’s a plugin called Really Simple SSL that can provide SSL. It’s just a plugin, install it, and it will give you all the details and SSL certificate using your WordPress website’s admin area.

Device/Browser-Related Issues

Now, you have gone through the SSL Certificate test for your website. It shows everything is perfect, but some visitors still need help with this error on their browsers. Then, it must be some issue on the client side. But we can also solve it by applying basic checks and changes to the client’s device or browser. 

Note: Change the Network or Use VPN

In major cases, the error NET::ERR_CERT_AUTHORITY_INVALID can be triggered due to the less secure network we’re using. By network, we mean Public WIFIs like Coffee shops or airports. In this case, we suggest using your mobile’s internet connection using a hotspot or any convenient way. Do this firstly because we need to be sure that the error is triggered due to an insecure network. 

On the other side, we also prefer to use any secure VPN service on your device. Many people who regularly use the Public IP or Public networks must like to use VPN. VPN can be beneficial for protecting your online privacy and security. When we connect to a VPN, our Internet traffic will route through an encrypted tunnel to a VPN server and acts as a mediator between our device and the Internet. It makes it more difficult for others to intercept or monitor our traffic because our data is encrypted and comes from the VPN server instead of your device. If, after doing this, you still need access to the website, you must follow the methods and steps one by one.

Method 1: Sync Time and Date

The browser displays this error once it finds the wrong timezone or time and date of the device. All the browsers check the SSL Certificates and the device’s operating system’s time for validity purposes. So, it could be a reason for old devices like desktops and laptops. Because our smartphones work on our battery and can be connected to the internet all the time. Follow the below step to change the date and time based on the operating system.

Windows

  • Click the Start menu or Press the Start Key.
  • Type in Date and Time Settings.
  • Under the Additional Settings section, click on Sync now.
  • Turn on the first option, Set time automatically to ensure your computer’s time is always right.

Mac

  • Click on the Apple menu, Then Click on System Settings, 
  • Click on General Settings in the sidebar, Then Click on Date & Time on the right.
  • Turn on Set time and date automatically, Click Set, Then enter a Network Time server for your Region.
  • Turn on Set time zone automatically using your Current Location.

Method 2: Clear Cache and Update Browser

All the browsers, like Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Microsoft Edge, and Safari, frequently store information like history, cookies, and cache files. Sometimes, these extra files and saved cookies disturb your browser’s requests and the server. It could be a reason for the NET::ERR_CERT_AUTHORITY_INVALID error.

The lack of updates could be a second reason for this error. So, here we listed the steps for Google Chrome and Mozilla Firefox browsers. Follow the steps to clear the cache and update the browsers. In case you’re using a different browser. You can search on google for more help related to the browser.

Method 3: Disable the Browser’s Extensions OR Try Incognito/Private mode

In case you applied both fixes and still, you’re getting this NET::ERR_CERT_AUTHORITY_INVALID error. Then, now it’s time to disable all the extensions temporarily. Some browser extensions can be the reason for this error because many extensions are available that can interfere with the downloading or uploading process. Extensions like VPNs, Security Software, and Other website checkers. So, we should try to disable them and check the website. Then, you can enable the extensions one by one to identify the extension with the issue. But we have another way to do the same thing; each browser comes with this default feature.

The Incognito/Private mode can be used instead of disabling all the extensions. Incognito or Private mode is a feature available in most web browsers that allow us to browse the internet without saving our browsing history, search history, and other personal information. In this case, we need the exact thing to reach the website. All the browser history, extensions, and additional saved data will not interrupt your request and the browser. Because the incognito/private mode doesn’t have that information. Here are the steps for disabling extensions and accessing the incognito mode. Choose the option as per your need. We explained for Google Chrome and Mozilla Firefox, you can catch help on google for your preferred browser. 

Note: Some extensions may not have a toggle switch. So, it can only be disabled by removing them. To remove an attachment, click the Remove button next to the Extension.

Method 4: Disable Firewall, Antivirus and VPN

  • Firewall: It’s a security system that controls network traffic based on rules. You can disable it temporarily to check if it’s causing issues.
  • Antivirus: There are many antivirus options, both free and paid. Disable them, restart your device, and see if it helps with the “NET::ERR_CERT_AUTHORITY_INVALID” error.
  • VPN: If you’re on public Wi-Fi, use a secure VPN. But if you still get the error, turn off the VPN temporarily and try accessing the website again.

Conclusion

As we discussed, the NET::ERR_CERT_AUTHORITY_INVALID error has many more similar types. And each error will display the same error based on their environment. Some browser shows you the error description, which makes it easy to understand. Then we also know that this error occurs for too many reasons. The server and SSL certificate can be issued, which is why we do this first. So we can be sure that our website doesn’t have any errors. Then, we also learn how to solve the issue for both the server and client sides. Once you try one method and your website works, please don’t follow the other remaining. 

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