SSL Handshake Failed: Causes and Solutions

Introduction

Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) is a protocol used to establish secure connections between web servers and clients. It ensures that the data transferred between them is encrypted and cannot be intercepted by third-party attackers. However, sometimes users may encounter an error message that says “SSL handshake failed.” This error occurs when the SSL handshake process between the web server and client fails to establish a secure connection. In this article, we will explore the causes of this error and provide solutions to fix it.

Causes of SSL Handshake Failed

There can be several reasons why the SSL handshake process fails. Let’s take a look at some of the common causes:

1. Expired SSL Certificate

Every SSL certificate has an expiry date. When the certificate expires, the SSL handshake process fails, and the client cannot establish a secure connection with the server. This can happen if the website owner forgets to renew the SSL certificate or if there is a delay in the renewal process.

2. Mismatched SSL Certificate

The SSL certificate contains information about the web server, including its domain name and public key. If the client receives an SSL certificate that does not match the domain name of the web server, the SSL handshake process fails. This can happen if the website owner installs the wrong SSL certificate or if the certificate issuer makes a mistake in issuing the certificate.

3. Outdated Browser or Operating System

Older versions of web browsers or operating systems may not support the latest SSL encryption standards. This can lead to an SSL handshake failure when the client tries to connect to a web server that uses the latest SSL encryption standards. It is recommended to use the latest version of your web browser and operating system to avoid this issue.

4. Firewall or Antivirus Interference

Firewalls or antivirus software can sometimes interfere with the SSL handshake process and prevent the client from establishing a secure connection with the web server. This can happen if the firewall or antivirus software blocks the SSL port or intercepts the SSL traffic. To fix this issue, you can try disabling the firewall or antivirus software temporarily and see if the SSL handshake process succeeds.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the SSL handshake failed error can be caused by several factors, including expired or mismatched SSL certificates, outdated web browsers or operating systems, and firewall or antivirus interference. By identifying the cause of the error, you can take the necessary steps to fix it and establish a secure connection with the web server.

SSL Handshake Failed: Causes and Solutions (Part 2)

Solutions for SSL Handshake Failed

Now that we have identified the causes of SSL handshake failed error, let’s take a look at some solutions to fix it.

1. Renew SSL Certificate

If the cause of the SSL handshake failed error is an expired SSL certificate, the solution is to renew the certificate. You can contact your SSL certificate provider and renew the certificate. Once the certificate is renewed, the SSL handshake process should be successful.

2. Install Correct SSL Certificate

If the cause of the SSL handshake failed error is a mismatched SSL certificate, the solution is to install the correct SSL certificate. You can contact your SSL certificate provider and request the correct certificate. Once the correct certificate is installed, the SSL handshake process should be successful.

3. Update Web Browser or Operating System

If the cause of the SSL handshake failed error is an outdated web browser or operating system, the solution is to update them to the latest version. You can check for updates on your web browser or operating system and install them. Once the updates are installed, the SSL handshake process should be successful.

4. Disable Firewall or Antivirus Software

If the cause of the SSL handshake failed error is firewall or antivirus interference, the solution is to disable the firewall or antivirus software temporarily. You can try disabling the software and see if the SSL handshake process succeeds. If it does, you can then re-enable the software and configure it to allow SSL traffic.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the SSL handshake failed error can be fixed by renewing or installing the correct SSL certificate, updating web browser or operating system, or disabling firewall or antivirus software. By following these solutions, you can establish a secure connection with the web server and avoid SSL handshake failed errors in the future.