How to Fix PR_END_OF_FILE_ERROR (SSL) in Firefox

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Updated on August 15, 2024

Reading Time: 5 min

PR_END_OF_FILE_ERROR #

Mozilla Firefox users might see the PR_END_OF_FILE_ERROR (Secure Connection Failed) when the browser can’t establish a secure connection. This happens because all cipher suites failed. This error can appear when visiting any website, but it’s not common and needs immediate attention.

Here are 5 different fixes you can try:

  1. Uninstalling third-party security suite
  2. Disabling your VPN or Proxy
  3. Resetting & refreshing Firefox SSL settings
  4. Disabling DNS over HTTPS
  5. Creating a new Firefox profile

FAQs #

Safari and Chromium Browsers #

If you are using Safari or a Chromium browser, this error code will not occur. It’s specific to Firefox and can be solved without deep technical knowledge. Try the following five methods if unsure of the root cause.

Third-Party Software: Windows vs Mac and Linux #

The OS you are using impacts the way to resolve this issue. Mac and Linux machines have internal infrastructures enabling safe browsing without additional antivirus software, so the first fix is aimed at Windows users.

1. Uninstalling Third-Party Security Suite #

Certain security tools like Bitdefender, REVE, and ESET can be overprotective, intercepting connection certificates and sending their own, triggering the PR error code. Disable this protection or uninstall the security suite.

Windows Users #
  1. Locate the dashboard for your antivirus software and toggle it off.
  2. Exit the program and shut down your machine.
  3. Wait a minute before restarting to clear the computer memory.
  4. Ensure the software isn’t running on your desktop.
  5. Check your browser to see if the error has cleared.

If the error message persists, check your VPN or proxy settings.

2. Disabling Your VPN or Proxy #

Your proxy or VPN settings might cause your browser to think cipher suites don’t exist.

  1. Go to the settings of your VPN and disable it.
  2. Reboot your machine and check your browser.
To Disable Proxy #
Mac Users #
  1. Click on your Apple icon to open system preferences, followed by the network.
  2. Find the network icon and click.
  3. Locate the network you are using (usually Wi-Fi) and click the advanced tab.
  4. Uncheck all boxes in the protocol configuration and click OK. Restart your Mac and check your browser.
Windows Users #
  1. Type “proxy” into the search bar and open the proxy settings shortcut.
  2. Scroll to the manual proxy subsection and toggle the switch to off.
  3. Reboot your computer and attempt to navigate to a page.

3. Resetting & Refreshing Firefox SSL Settings #

Users encountering this error may have previously altered SSL settings.

  1. Open Firefox and click the hamburger icon in the upper right corner.
  2. Select options from the drop-down list, then click help and select more troubleshooting information.
  3. Click on Refresh Firefox and again in the confirmation window.
  4. Once done, you will see a window with your imported information. Click Finish and Firefox should open.
  5. Decide if you want Firefox to restore some of your windows and click Let’s Go!

Your SSL settings will be reset.

4. Disabling DNS over HTTPS #

DNS over HTTPS encrypts your connection to protect it from attacks and privacy intrusion but can cause the PR error code.

  1. Open the Firefox preferences screen through the hamburger menu.
  2. On the general screen, click the settings button to open connection settings.
  3. Find the enable DNS over HTTPS option and uncheck this box.
  4. Restart Firefox and check if the error has disappeared.

5. Creating a New Firefox Profile #

If all other fixes fail, create a new Firefox profile.

  1. Export your bookmarks by clicking the toolbar, showing bookmarks, or using a keyboard shortcut.
  2. Click export bookmarks to HTML and save the file.
  3. Type aboutinto the browser or bar and press enter.
  4. The screen will display your current profiles. Click create a new profile and enter a new username.
  5. Click confirm at the bottom of the profile.

You can now launch this new profile and should not encounter the error code.

FAQs #

What Causes PR_END_OF_FILE_ERROR in Firefox? #

  • Third-Party Security: Overzealous security suites intercept connection certificates and send their own.
  • VPN or Proxy Interference: Acts as a middleman intercepting connections, triggering the error.
  • Unsupported or Incorrect Cipher Variance: Modified SSL settings force an unsupported variance.
  • Corrupted Firefox Profile: May require starting with a new profile.

Will This Error Happen Again, or Can I Prevent It? #

If you follow the recommended fixes, you should not encounter this error again. Switching antivirus software may trigger it, requiring you to repeat the first fix. Avoid modifying SSL settings.

Is PR_END_OF_FILE_ERROR Indicative of Other Issues? #

No, it often recurs because the root cause has not been determined. Starting a new profile is a last resort.

Does This Mean Firefox Is Not as Good as Other Browsers? #

Absolutely not! Firefox offers privacy protection, cross-platform sync, and a range of extensions and plugins, making it incredibly flexible for designers or agencies.

Is the Security of My Website Causing PR_END_OF_FILE_ERROR for Visitors? #

Yes, it is possible. If visitors see this error message or “Not Secure,” it indicates your website is not providing an encrypted connection, triggering protection software or the PR_END_OF_FILE_ERROR message.

What Happens If a Website Is Not Secure? #

Unsecure websites are vulnerable to malware and cyberattacks, impacting functionality and potentially compromising customers’ personal information.

How Do I Choose a Secure Web Hosting Company? #

CP CLOUD HOSTING offers ultra-secure hosting, including PCI-compliant hosting, malware scanning, 1 Tbps+ DDoS protection, web application firewall, brute force login protection, FTP security lock, and 2FA as part of the package.

Why Is Web Hosting Security Important? #

Malware and cyber-attacks impact your website’s functionality. If visitors can’t access your site, they will go to a competitor. For e-commerce sites, cyber threats can compromise customers’ personal information, impacting your business and bottom line.