How to Fix SSL Certificate Errors and Security Warnings: Complete Troubleshooting Guide

How to Fix SSL Certificate Errors and Security Warnings: Complete Troubleshooting Guide

By Michael Thompson

January 15, 2025 at 01:50 AM

SSL certificate errors occur when browsers detect security issues with a website's SSL protection. Here's how to fix these common problems:

For New Domains

  • Wait up to 72 hours after connecting a new domain for the SSL certificate to generate
  • Verify your site is set to "Secure" in the SSL panel
  • Check that your domain points correctly to your Squarespace site

Common Error Messages

"Your connection is not private/secure":

  • Check for mixed content on your site
  • Verify domain connection settings
  • Review DNS records are correct
  • Use a supported browser that works with Let's Encrypt certificates

"SSL Certificates Unavailable":

  • Wait 72 hours for new domain connections
  • Check domain pointing settings
  • For Squarespace domains: Verify default records are unchanged
  • For third-party domains:
    • Review domain assignment records
    • Check for CAA record restrictions with your provider

Additional Troubleshooting Steps

  1. Verify your domain settings:
  • Squarespace domains: Check default records
  • Third-party domains: Confirm DNS records are correct
  1. Clear browser cache if warnings persist

  2. Test in a private browsing window

  3. Request Google Search Console to index your site once SSL is working

Important Notes

  • Free SSL certificates are automatic for all properly connected domains
  • DNSSEC is separate from SSL protection
  • Third-party DNSSEC may not always work with Squarespace SSL
  • Consider transferring problematic third-party domains to Squarespace
  • Disable SSL if certificate issues cannot be resolved

If problems persist after trying these steps, contact Squarespace support for additional assistance.

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