How to Fix the “SSL Handshake Failed” Error

Encountering an “SSL Handshake Failed” Error? Here’s How to Fix It

An “SSL handshake failed” error is a security roadblock. It means your device (client) couldn’t securely connect to a website (server). This secure connection, like a secret handshake, is crucial for protecting your information.

Why does it fail?

• Wrong time: Your device’s date and time might be off, throwing off the handshake.
• Browser issues: An outdated web browser or conflicting extensions might mess things up. Try a different browser or use incognito/private mode.
• Website problems. The website’s security certificate might be invalid, or their software might not be compatible with yours.

This can be caused by various factors, but fret not! Here are several steps you can take to diagnose and potentially resolve the issue:

Double-check the time and date:

An often-overlooked culprit is your device’s date and time settings. Inaccurate time throws a wrench into the handshake process, so ensure your device displays the correct date and time.

Explore Different Browsers:

If the error persists, try accessing the website using a different browser. This helps determine if the issue is specific to your usual browser or its extensions. Consider resetting your web browser to default settings or temporarily disabling extensions to isolate the problem.

How to Fix the “SSL Handshake Failed” Error

Temporarily Disable Security Software:

While unlikely, your antivirus software or firewall might occasionally interfere with secure connections. Try temporarily disabling them to see if the error disappears. Remember to re-enable them afterwards for continued security.

Clear Browser Cache and Cookies:

Your Web browser accumulates temporary data like cache and cookies. It can sometimes become outdated and cause issues. Clearing your browser’s cache and cookies can help fix outdated data problems.

Restart Your Device:

A simple restart of your device and router can often clear temporary glitches that might be causing the problem. It’s a quick and easy step that can sometimes work wonders.

If the above solutions prove ineffective, the problem likely lies on the website’s end. In such cases, contacting the website owner or administrator is recommended. They have the necessary resources to investigate and address the issue on their servers.

Important reminders:

Exercise caution with security warnings. During troubleshooting, if your browser displays a security warning about an invalid certificate, do not proceed to the website. This could state a genuine security risk. Bypassing the warning is not recommended.

Seek professional help. If you can’t troubleshoot technical issues, consider getting help from an IT pro or the website’s support team. They can provide further guidance and expertise to help you resolve the error.

By following these steps and exercising caution, you can effectively troubleshoot “SSL handshake failed” errors. It ensures a secure and uninterrupted browsing experience.