How to fix err_ssl_protocol_error

The ERR_SSL_PROTOCOL_ERROR indicates a problem with establishing a secure connection via SSL/TLS between your browser and the website. This could be due to browser settings, system configuration, or server-side issues. Below are steps to troubleshoot and fix it:

  1. Check the Date and Time on Your Device

    Ensure the system clock is accurate. Incorrect date or time can cause SSL certificate validation issues.

    Fix: Update the date and time manually or enable automatic syncing with internet time.

  2. Clear Browser Cache and Cookies

    Outdated cache or corrupted cookies may cause the error.

    Fix in Chrome:

    • Go to chrome://settings/clearBrowserData.
    • Select Cookies and other site data and Cached images and files.
    • Click Clear Data.
  3. Disable Browser Extensions

    Some extensions, such as VPNs or security add-ons, might interfere with SSL protocols.

    Fix:

    • Go to chrome://extensions.
    • Disable extensions one by one and reload the page to identify the problematic one.
  4. Update Your Browser

    Outdated browsers may not support the latest SSL/TLS protocols.

    Fix:

    Check for updates and install the latest version of your browser.

  5. Check Antivirus or Firewall Settings

    Overprotective antivirus software or firewalls might block SSL certificates.

    Fix:

    • Temporarily disable your antivirus or firewall and check the site.
    • If it works, add the website to the whitelist or configure the software to allow SSL scanning.
  6. Enable All SSL/TLS Versions

    Some websites may require specific SSL/TLS protocols that your browser has disabled.

    Fix in Chrome:

    • Go to chrome://flags.
    • Search for TLS and ensure TLS 1.2 and TLS 1.3 are enabled.
  7. Check Your Network

    If you're using a public or insecure network, SSL errors might occur.

    Fix:

    Switch to a secure network or use a reliable VPN.

  8. Verify Website SSL Certificate

    The error could be due to an expired, misconfigured, or invalid SSL certificate on the website.

    Fix: Use an online SSL checker tool (e.g., Qualys SSL Labs) to test the website. If you're the website owner, renew or configure the SSL certificate properly.

  9. Flush DNS and Reset Network Settings

    DNS cache corruption may cause SSL errors.

    Fix:

    Open Command Prompt (Windows) or Terminal (Mac).

    Windows:

    ipconfig /flushdns
    netsh winsock reset

    Mac:

    sudo dscacheutil -flushcache
    sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder
  10. Contact Website Support

    If the issue persists, the problem might be server-side.

    Fix: Reach out to the website owner or support team to resolve their SSL configuration.

By following these steps, you should be able to resolve most instances of ERR_SSL_PROTOCOL_ERROR.