How To Fix ‘ERR_SSL_VERSION_OR_CIPHER_MISMATCH’ Error Guide

Many of you have probably encountered the error ERR_SSL_VERSION_OR_CIPHER_MISMATCH while trying to access a specific website or page. This issue is most commonly seen in Google Chrome or other Internet Explorer browsers and service providers.

This Error is most likely to appear on websites that ask for sensitive or personal information from their users.This Error stops the website from accessing such personal information by asking for information such as your Credit Card credentials and passwords.

How To

Your browser checks a website’s SSL certificate every time you visit it. SSL Certificates verify that a website is trustworthy and that all essential and proper standards have been followed to keep your connection safe and secure.

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Understanding ERR_SSL_VERSION_OR_CIPHER_MISMATCH

Before we delve into solutions, let’s clarify what ERR_SSL_VERSION_OR_CIPHER_MISMATCH means.

This error occurs when your web browser attempts to establish a secure connection (HTTPS) with a website, but there is a mismatch in the supported SSL/TLS versions or cipher suites between the browser and the server.

In simpler terms, it’s like trying to speak two different languages – the browser and the server can’t understand each other’s encryption methods, leading to a failed connection.

Common Causes of ERR_SSL_VERSION_OR_CIPHER_MISMATCH

Several factors can contribute to the occurrence of ERR_SSL_VERSION_OR_CIPHER_MISMATCH. Understanding these causes is the first step toward resolving the issue:

  1. Outdated Browser: Using an outdated web browser can lead to compatibility issues with modern SSL/TLS encryption protocols.
  2. Server Configuration: The server hosting the website may have misconfigured SSL/TLS settings or outdated cipher suites.
  3. Incompatible SSL/TLS Versions: The client (your web browser) and the server might support different versions of SSL/TLS, leading to a mismatch.
  4. Expired SSL Certificate: If the SSL certificate for the website has expired, your browser won’t trust the connection.
  5. Firewall or Antivirus Interference: Third-party firewall or antivirus software can sometimes interfere with the SSL handshake process.
  6. Proxy Server Issues: If you’re using a proxy server, it may not support the required encryption methods.

How To Fix ‘ERR_SSL_VERSION_OR_CIPHER_MISMATCH’ Error Guide

This error arises when a secure connection to the website server cannot be formed and the protocols are unsafe, implying that the website is not secure. If the browser is running an obsolete protocol version, it may not consider the website to be safe, resulting in the Error.

As a result, any website that requests such sensitive information is likely to display this Error. You can’t do anything about it because the website’s choice of protocols and certificates isn’t under your control. For your safety, you have been denied access from your end.

However, there are some ways to get past this and gain access to these websites by circumventing SSL verification.

Method 1: Modify Chrome’s Flags

By following the steps below, you can configure your browser to ignore warnings for any outdated version of SSL and TSL. Keep in mind that this only works on older versions of Google Chrome, as the flags we need are no longer present in the most recent Google Chrome version.

Step 1: Type “Google Chrome” into your browser.

Step 2: Type “chrome:/flags/” into the address bar and hit “Enter.”

Step 3: From the drop-down menu, select “Minimum SSL/TSL version supported.”

Step 4: Select “SSLV3” from the “Minimum SSL/ TSL version supported” drop-down option.

Step 5: At the bottom, click the “Relaunch” button.

Simply restart your browser to gain access to the website that was displaying Error.

Method 2: Disable SSL Scanning

It’s possible that you have an anti-virus or other security tool installed on your computer that is causing the SSL scan to fail. This antivirus software programme on your device may run an SSL scan, which can be switched off in the settings and may help you to resolve the Error.

Though the processes may differ from antivirus software to antivirus software, there is always the option to turn it off.

Step 1: Double-click on your anti-virus program’s icon in the bottom right corner of the screen.

Step 2: Select “Modules” from the drop-down menu.

Step 3: Select “Web Protection” from the drop-down menu.

Step 4: Select the “Scan SSL” option and untick it.

The instructions below will assist you in turning off the SSL Scan and allowing you to access the website that was displaying an Error.

Method 3: Experiment With Older Versions

Because your browser is up to date with the newest standards, it is designed to reject outdated protocols and certificates, it may display this Error message. If you use an older version of the browser, you might be able to remedy the problem.

You can look for an older version of Google Chrome or any other internet service provider you like. Install the browser, but bear in mind that you won’t be able to run two versions of Google Chrome at the same time, so either delete the newer version and install the older version.

Some Easy Solutions to ERR_SSL_VERSION_OR_CIPHER_MISMATCH Error Easily:

Now that we’ve identified potential causes, let’s explore effective solutions to resolve the ERR_SSL_VERSION_OR_CIPHER_MISMATCH error:

  1. Update Your Browser: Ensure you are using the latest version of your web browser. Browsers frequently update their SSL/TLS support for security reasons.
  2. Clear Browser Cache: Outdated or corrupted cache files can cause SSL-related errors. Clear your browser’s cache and cookies.
  3. Check Website URL: Verify that you’ve entered the correct URL with the “https://” prefix. Typos or missing letters can trigger errors.
  4. Try a Different Browser: If the error persists, try accessing the website using a different web browser to see if it’s a browser-specific issue.
  5. Check System Date and Time: Ensure that your computer’s date and time settings are accurate. An incorrect system time can lead to SSL certificate validation failures.
  6. Disable Firewall or Antivirus: Temporarily disable your firewall or antivirus software to check if they are causing the issue. If the error disappears, consider adjusting their settings.
  7. Contact Website Administrator: If you consistently encounter ERR_SSL_VERSION_OR_CIPHER_MISMATCH on a specific website, contact the website administrator or support team to inquire about their SSL/TLS configuration.
  8. Use a VPN: If you suspect that your network or ISP is causing the issue, consider using a VPN to access the website. VPNs can bypass network restrictions.
  9. Update Operating System: Ensure that your operating system is up-to-date, as updates can include important security fixes.
  10. Check SSL Certificate: If you are the owner of the website displaying the error, review your SSL certificate. Ensure it is up-to-date and properly installed.
  11. Check Server Configuration: If you have control over the server, review and update the server’s SSL/TLS configuration and cipher suites to align with modern standards.
  12. Disable Proxy Server: If you’re using a proxy server, disable it temporarily to see if it’s causing the issue. Proxy servers can sometimes disrupt secure connections.

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Conclusion

The ERR_SSL_VERSION_OR_CIPHER_MISMATCH error can be a frustrating obstacle when trying to access secure websites. However, with a clear understanding of its causes and the right troubleshooting steps, you can often resolve the issue.

Start by updating your web browser, clearing cache files, and checking the accuracy of the website URL. If the error persists, consider adjusting firewall or antivirus settings, contacting the website administrator, or using a VPN for access.

It’s important to keep both your browser and operating system up-to-date to ensure compatibility with modern SSL/TLS encryption methods. By following these solutions, you can regain access to secure websites and enjoy a safer and more secure online experience.