SSL Certificate Errors Explained
An SSL certificate is what turns the padlock on in your visitor's browser and encrypts the connection to your site. When something is wrong with it, browsers show a warning page that can frighten visitors away.
These errors look serious but are usually simple to fix, often because a certificate has expired or is mismatched. This guide explains the common warnings in plain language.
What the Warnings Mean
Browsers use slightly different wording, but the underlying causes are few.
- Expired: the certificate has passed its renewal date.
- Name mismatch: the certificate does not cover the exact domain typed.
- Not trusted: the issuing authority is not recognised.
- Incomplete chain: a supporting certificate is missing.
What You Can Check
A few quick checks help confirm the cause.
- Click the padlock or warning to read the certificate details.
- Note the expiry date shown.
- Check whether the error appears with and without
www. - Confirm your device's clock is set correctly.
When to Escalate
Certificate errors affect every visitor and harm trust, so raise them with us promptly. We manage renewals and installation, and can usually reissue and reinstall a valid certificate within a short time.
If you need a hand with any of this, your Progressive Robot delivery team is ready to help. Raise a ticket from the Support area of your client portal or speak to your account manager and we will guide you through the next steps.