Are your Mac's websites displaying errors since September 30th? Many users are experiencing certificate issues impacting browsing. This frustrating problem stems from expired security certificates, but the fix is simpler than you think. This guide provides straightforward steps to resolve these errors and get your Mac browsing smoothly again. We'll cover troubleshooting techniques to get you back online quickly and securely. Let's get started!
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Download the Certificate
- Download the ISRG Root X1 certificate.
Download the Certificate -
Import the Certificate
- Open the downloaded PEM file.
- Add the certificate to your Keychain Access. You will need to provide your admin password.
Import the Certificate -
Trust the Certificate
- Go to Keychain Access and locate the ISRG Root X1 certificate. It will initially show as untrusted.
- Set the certificate to 'Always Trust'.
- Save changes. The certificate should now be marked as trusted for all users.
Trust the Certificate
Tips
- Understanding the certificate setup in a Mac (diagram provided in the video).
- The issue is related to the expiration of the DST Root CA X3 certificate on September 30th.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
1. Incorrect Date/Time Settings
Reason: An incorrect system date and time can cause certificate validation failures, as the certificate's validity period might not align with the device's time.
Solution: Correct your Mac's date and time settings by synchronizing them with a reliable time server.
2. Outdated System Software
Reason: An outdated operating system or web browser might not support the latest security protocols required for the updated certificate.
Solution: Update your macOS and web browser to their latest versions.
3. Ignoring System Prompts
Reason: Disregarding prompts to update certificates or trust new security certificates prevents the system from properly verifying website authenticity.
Solution: Always carefully review and approve system prompts related to security certificates.
FAQs
My Mac says the website's security certificate is invalid. What does that mean?
An invalid security certificate means your Mac doesn't trust the website's identity. This usually happens because the certificate has expired (like those impacted by the September 30th date), is self-signed (untrusted by default), or is otherwise compromised. This prevents your browser from securely connecting, displaying a warning and potentially blocking access.