If you’re using an older version of Windows, such as Windows 7 or Windows Vista, you may encounter certificate errors when trying to access certain websites. These errors can occur because the root certificates on your system are out of date, and your computer is unable to verify the authenticity of the website’s security certificate. Fortunately, there are a few steps you can take to resolve these issues and continue browsing the web securely.
Manually Install Root Certificates
One of the most effective ways to fix certificate errors on older Windows systems is to manually install the latest root certificates. This can be done by following these steps:
Download the latest root certificate update package. You can find this package by searching online for “Windows root certificate update” or by checking the Microsoft support website.
Extract the downloaded package and locate the setup file.
Right-click the setup file and select “Run as administrator” to launch the installation process.
Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.
After the installation is complete, try accessing the website that was giving you the certificate error again. The issue should be resolved, and you should be able to browse the site without any issues.
Use the Certificate Error Workaround
If manually installing the root certificates doesn’t work, you can try using a workaround in Internet Explorer to bypass the certificate error. Here’s how:
In Internet Explorer, navigate to the website that’s giving you the certificate error.
When the “There is a problem with this website’s security certificate” message appears, click “Continue to this website (not recommended)”.
Click the “Certificate Error” button to open the information window.
Click “View Certificates”, and then click “Install Certificate”.
On the warning message that appears, click “Yes” to install the certificate.
This workaround allows you to temporarily bypass the certificate error and access the website, but it’s important to note that it’s not recommended for sensitive or financial transactions, as it may not provide the same level of security as a properly verified certificate.
Update Your Operating System
If you’re still experiencing certificate errors, it may be time to consider upgrading your operating system. Microsoft has ended support for older versions of Windows, including Windows 7 and Windows Vista, which means they no longer receive security updates and patches. This can leave your system vulnerable to various security issues, including certificate-related problems.
If possible, consider upgrading to a newer version of Windows, such as Windows 10 or Windows 11, to ensure your system is up-to-date and secure. This will not only resolve any certificate-related issues but also provide you with the latest security features and improvements.