Why Do I Get an ERR_SSL_UNRECOGNIZED_NAME_ALERT Error?

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Updated on August 16, 2024

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ERR_SSL_UNRECOGNIZED_NAME_ALERT #

If you’re trying to access the temporary URL (e.g., example-co-uk.staging.com), you may get an ERR_SSL_UNRECOGNIZED_NAME_ALERT error. This error occurs because the temporary URL can’t load over SSL (https://). To resolve the temporary URL, you’ll need to ensure it loads over http://.

How to Fix an ERR_SSL_UNRECOGNIZED_NAME_ALERT Error:
Check the WordPress Site and Home URL:

Ensure it’s set to load over http:// instead of https://.
Disable Force HTTPS in the Control Panel:

This setting might be forcing the site to load over https://, which is not supported for the temporary URL.
Ensure the Really Simple SSL Plugin is Disabled:

This plugin can force https://. Disable it to prevent the forced HTTPS loading.
Remove Any Redirects in the .htaccess File:

Check the .htaccess file for any redirects that might be forcing HTTPS and remove them.
Try an Incognito Browser Tab:

After making any corrections, try accessing the site in an incognito tab to ensure https:// is not cached in your browser.
Note: Ensure you enter the correct URL in the browser when trying to access the temporary URL, i.e., http://example-co-uk.staging.com.