How to fix: err_cert_common_name_invalid error in Google Chrome

How to fix: err_cert_common_name_invalid error in Google Chrome

The "err_cert_common_name_invalid" error in Google Chrome indicates a mismatch between the website's security certificate and the domain name you're trying to access. This means the certificate's Common Name (CN) – the main name it's issued for – doesn't match the website's address in your browser's address bar. To fix this, you need to investigate the root cause, which could involve several factors. Here are the most common solutions:

• Check the website address: Carefully double-check the URL you're entering. A simple typo can cause this error. Ensure there are no extra characters or incorrect spellings.
• Clear your browser's cache and cookies: Sometimes, outdated cached data can interfere with certificate verification. Go to Chrome's settings (three vertical dots in the top right corner), select "More tools," then "Clear browsing data." Select "Cached images and files" and "Cookies and other site data," and choose a time range (at least the last hour, ideally more). Then click "Clear data."
• Check your system's date and time: Incorrect system time can lead to certificate validation issues. Ensure your computer's date and time are accurate and synchronized with a time server.
• Update your operating system: Outdated operating systems might have issues with certificate validation. Check for and install any available updates for your operating system.
• Update your antivirus and firewall software: Outdated or incorrectly configured security software can sometimes interfere with certificate verification. Update your antivirus and firewall software to the latest versions.
• Temporarily disable your antivirus and firewall: If updating doesn't resolve the issue, temporarily disable your antivirus and firewall to see if they're the source of the problem. Remember to re-enable them afterward.
• Use a different browser: Try accessing the website using a different browser (like Firefox or Edge). If the website loads correctly in another browser, the issue is likely specific to Chrome's configuration.
• Contact the website administrator: If none of the above steps work, the problem might lie with the website's certificate itself. Contact the website's administrator and report the error.

Why am I getting the "err_cert_common_name_invalid" error in Chrome?

The "err_cert_common_name_invalid" error arises because Chrome's security mechanisms detect a discrepancy between the Common Name (CN) field in the website's SSL/TLS certificate and the domain name you're attempting to access. This mismatch indicates a potential security risk. Chrome prevents access to prevent you from being a victim of a man-in-the-middle attack or other malicious activity where a fraudulent certificate might be used to impersonate a legitimate website. Essentially, the certificate is saying "I'm for this website," but Chrome sees the address you're trying to reach and says, "No, that's not the website this certificate is for."

What are the potential causes of the "err_cert_common_name_invalid" error?

Several factors can contribute to the "err_cert_common_name_invalid" error:

• Incorrectly configured SSL certificate: The most common cause is an improperly configured SSL certificate on the website's server. The certificate's Common Name might not accurately reflect the website's domain name, or it might be missing entirely. This is often the website's responsibility to fix.
• Typographical errors in the website address: A simple spelling mistake in the URL can lead to this error, as the browser is trying to match the certificate to an incorrect domain.
• Outdated or corrupted browser cache: Cached data can sometimes interfere with certificate verification, leading to false-positive errors.
• System clock discrepancies: An incorrect system time can affect certificate validation, as certificates have expiration dates.
• Firewall or antivirus interference: Security software can sometimes block or interfere with the certificate verification process.
• Self-signed certificates or untrusted certificate authorities: If the website uses a self-signed certificate or a certificate from an untrusted Certificate Authority (CA), Chrome might refuse to accept it due to security concerns.

How can I permanently resolve the "err_cert_common_name_invalid" error in Chrome to prevent it from recurring?

A permanent solution depends on the root cause. If the problem originates from the website's end (incorrectly configured certificate), you have limited control. However, you can ensure that your browser and system are properly configured to minimize the chances of encountering this error again:

• Keep your browser updated: Regularly update Chrome to benefit from the latest security patches and improvements in certificate handling.
• Keep your operating system updated: Outdated operating systems might have vulnerabilities affecting certificate validation.
• Keep your antivirus and firewall updated: Ensure your security software is up-to-date to prevent interference with certificate verification.
• Avoid accessing untrusted websites: Be cautious when visiting websites that use self-signed certificates or certificates from unknown Certificate Authorities. These can pose significant security risks.
• Report the issue to the website: If you suspect the website's certificate is incorrectly configured, report the issue to the website administrator so they can address it. This is the most effective long-term solution for preventing recurring errors on that specific website.

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