Quick Summary
The "ERR_CERT_AUTHORITY_INVALID" error in Chrome indicates that the browser doesn't trust the certificate authority (CA) that signed the website's SSL certificate. This usually happens because the certificate is self-signed, issued by an untrusted CA, or there's an issue with your system's trust store.
Common Causes
- Untrusted Certificate Authority: The website's SSL certificate was signed by a Certificate Authority (CA) that your browser or operating system does not recognize or trust. Self-signed certificates also fall under this category.
- Expired Certificate: The SSL certificate for the website has expired and is no longer valid. Browsers automatically reject expired certificates for security reasons.
- Certificate Name Mismatch: The domain name on the certificate does not match the website's address you are trying to access (e.g., the certificate is for example.com, but you are visiting www.example.net).
- Man-in-the-Middle Attack: Although less common, the error can appear during a man-in-the-middle attack, where your connection is being intercepted, and a fraudulent certificate is being presented.
- Firewall or Antivirus Interference: Sometimes, security software like firewalls or antivirus programs can interfere with SSL connections and cause Chrome to distrust the certificate.
- Outdated System Date and Time: An incorrect date and time setting on your computer can cause the browser to misinterpret the validity period of SSL certificates.
Step-by-Step Fixes
Method 1: Check Your System Date and Time
Step 1: Verify that your computer's date and time are set correctly. This is a common cause of certificate errors.
Step 2: Correct the date and time if they are incorrect. Restart your browser after making the changes.
Method 2: Clear SSL State in Chrome
Step 1: Open Chrome settings by typing chrome://settings in the address bar.
Step 2: Search for "proxy settings" and open your computer's proxy settings.
Step 3: Go to the "Content" tab and click on "Clear SSL state".
Step 4: Restart Chrome.
Method 3: Disable Antivirus or Firewall Temporarily
Step 1: Temporarily disable your antivirus or firewall software.
Step 2: Try accessing the website again. If it works, your security software is likely interfering and needs to be configured properly to allow SSL connections to the website.
Step 3: Re-enable your antivirus or firewall after testing and configure it correctly as needed.
Method 4: Proceed with Caution (Not Recommended)
Step 1: If you are certain about the website's safety, you can choose to proceed despite the error. This is generally not recommended as it bypasses security checks and could leave you vulnerable to threats.
Step 2: On the error page, depending on the Chrome version, look for an "Advanced" button or a similar option to proceed to the website. This is a temporary solution and should only be used if you fully understand the risks involved.
Method 5: Update Chrome
Step 1: Open Chrome settings by typing chrome://settings in the address bar.
Step 2: Select "About Chrome" to check for updates. Chrome will automatically download and install any available updates.
Step 3: Restart Chrome after the update is complete.
Method 6: Reset Chrome Settings
Step 1: Open Chrome settings by typing chrome://settings in the address bar.
Step 2: Type "reset" in the search bar and choose the "Restore settings to their original defaults" option.
Step 3: Click on the "Reset settings" button to confirm.
Step 4: Restart Chrome.