Alex Ruben
Fixing the Invalid SSL Certificate Error on Steam
If you’re encountering an “Invalid SSL Certificate” error when trying to log into Steam or during purchases, you’re not alone. This issue can stem from various factors, including incorrect system settings, network issues, or DNS problems. Fortunately, this guide will walk you through a series of methods to resolve this error efficiently. By the end of this tutorial, you will have the knowledge to troubleshoot and fix the SSL certificate error, allowing you to access your Steam account without any interruptions.
Before we begin, ensure you have administrative access to your computer and a stable internet connection. You may also want to have your Steam account credentials on hand, as you will need to log back into your account after applying the fixes.
Step 1: Correct the Date and Time Settings
One of the most common reasons for SSL certificate errors is incorrect date and time settings on your device. To fix this, follow these steps:
- Open the Settings menu on your computer.
- Select Time & Language.
- Choose Date & Time.
- Ensure that your time zone is set correctly. You can do this by toggling Set time zone automatically on.
- Under Additional settings, click on Sync now to synchronize your clock with the internet.
After syncing, try launching Steam again to see if the issue persists.
Step 2: Use a Mobile Hotspot and Web Browser
Sometimes, the issue may be related to your current internet connection. Using a mobile hotspot can bypass network restrictions that may be causing the SSL certificate error. Here’s how to do it:
- Connect your computer to your mobile phone’s hotspot.
- Open your preferred web browser.
- Type
steam logininto the address bar and press Enter. - Log into your Steam account through the browser.
If you can log in successfully through the browser, try accessing Steam through the desktop application again.
Step 3: Change DNS Settings
If the previous methods did not resolve the issue, changing your DNS settings may help. Follow these steps to adjust your DNS:
- Right-click on the Start menu and select Run.
- Type
ncpa.cpland hit Enter. - Right-click on your active Wi-Fi connection and choose Properties.
- Select Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) and click on Properties.
- Check the option labeled Use the following DNS server addresses.
- In the Preferred DNS server field, enter
8.8.8.8. - In the Alternate DNS server field, enter
8.8.4.4. - Click OK to save your settings.
Once you have updated your DNS settings, restart your computer and check if the SSL certificate error is resolved in Steam.
Extra Tips & Common Issues
Here are some additional tips that may further assist you in resolving the SSL certificate error:
- Ensure that your operating system is up-to-date with the latest updates and security patches.
- Check your firewall and antivirus settings to ensure they are not blocking Steam.
- If you continue to experience issues, consider reinstalling the Steam application.
Conclusion
By following the steps outlined in this guide, you should be able to fix the invalid SSL certificate error on Steam. Proper date and time settings, using a mobile hotspot, and changing DNS settings are effective methods to resolve connectivity issues. If you encounter further problems, reviewing your internet connection and system settings may yield additional solutions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if none of the methods work?
If none of the solutions resolve the issue, consider contacting Steam support for further assistance.
Can I use a different DNS provider?
Yes, you can use other DNS providers such as Cloudflare (1.1.1.1) or OpenDNS. Just replace the DNS addresses accordingly in the settings.
Will changing DNS settings affect my internet speed?
Changing DNS settings can potentially improve your internet speed, as it may allow for faster domain name resolution, but results can vary based on your location and ISP.