ERR_CERT_AUTHORITY_INVALID Error Solution Guide: Step-by-Step Explanation

The "ERR_CERT_AUTHORITY_INVALID" error you encounter while browsing the internet can be frustrating. This error typically occurs when your browser faces a certificate validation issue while trying to establish a secure connection. In this article, we will explore the meaning of this error and how to resolve it step by step.

Causes and Meaning of the ERR_CERT_AUTHORITY_INVALID Error

The ERR_CERT_AUTHORITY_INVALID error indicates that the SSL certificate of a website is signed by a certificate authority (CA) that is not recognized by your browser or operating system. This can occur due to expired certificates, untrusted CAs, or improper certificate configurations.

This error warns the user that the site may not be secure and that there could be a risk of data theft. Therefore, it is important to exercise caution when you encounter this error.

Checking Browser and Date Settings

First, you should check the date and time settings on your device. Incorrect date or time can cause SSL certificates to be misinterpreted as invalid. By setting your computer’s date and time correctly, you can resolve this issue.

Additionally, ensure that the browser you are using is up to date. Older browser versions may have difficulty recognizing new certificate authorities. Updating your browser can help resolve the issue.

Identifying and Resolving Untrusted Certificate Authorities

Another common cause of the error is that your browser is accepting a certificate from an untrusted certificate authority. You can open the certificate manager from your browser settings to inspect installed certificates and remove untrusted ones.

Manually installing and approving a certificate from an untrusted certificate authority is also a solution, but it is recommended only for trusted sources.

Reviewing Antivirus and Firewall Settings

Antivirus programs and firewalls may sometimes block the certificates your browser receives from the internet. In this case, check the settings of your security software to see whether it allows your browser to receive such certificates.

You can temporarily disable your security software to check if this resolves the error. If it does, you may need to adjust the settings of your security software.

Installing Certificates and Granting Manual Security Permissions

As a last resort, you can manually install a certificate from a trusted source and ensure your browser accepts it. This process may require some technical knowledge and should be done carefully.

First, make sure the certificate comes from a trusted source. Then, use your operating system's or browser's certificate manager to install the certificate and grant the appropriate permissions. This can help your browser recognize the certificate and resolve the error.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the ERR_CERT_AUTHORITY_INVALID error?
  This error indicates that a website's SSL certificate has been signed by an unrecognized certificate authority.
• How can I fix this error?
  You can check the date and time settings, update your browser, remove untrusted certificates, and review your security software settings.
• Can I ignore the error message?
  Ignoring this error may result in your data being transmitted over an insecure connection, which is not recommended.
• Is manually installing a certificate safe?
  If the certificate comes from a trusted source, it may be safe to install. However, certificates from untrusted sources are risky.
• Does this error occur on all sites?
  This error generally occurs for specific websites, which may have issues with their certificate authorities.