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How to fix the problem with Internet Explorer that cannot connect to secure (https) sites

Tuesday, 28 June 2011 17:45 by Miranda

You can try next steps in order to fix the problem:

1. Close IE and open it again and test it before doing the next one.

2. Install all Windows updates.

3. Scan your computer for malware (worms, viruses and spyware).

4. Verify that IE is working on unsecure web sites. Refresh this page.

5. Open IE and click on Tools icon (or press Alt+X key combination on your keyboard), choose About Internet Explorer

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and look at the Cipher Strength.

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It should be 128 bit or more. If the Cipher Strength is anything less then 128-bit, download and install the Internet Explorer High Encryption Pack.

6. Open IE, go to Tools menu, choose Internet Options.

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Navigate to Advanced tab and scroll to bottom of list. The SSL and TLS options (all versions) should be checked.

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7. Check Delete Cookies, Delete Files and Clear History in Tools, Internet Options, General tab and press Delete button.

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8. Uncheck the box for Enable Third Party Browser Extensions in the Advanced Section (all other settings in Advanced Section are set to Default).

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Click Apply button and restart IE.

9. Configure Security settings for the Trusted sites zone in IE: open IE, Tools menu, choose Internet Options, navigate to Security tab, select Trusted sites, Default Level.

Click Sites button.

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Type the address (URL) of the site in the Add this Web site to the zone: box, click Add button, then Close and Apply buttons.

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10. Check Firewall/Network Configuration. Make sure that the SSL port (port 443) is open on your network/firewall (if you have any). There are many different Firewall/Network products, so it is impossible to give set-by-step instructions. Check the documentation or help file of the product you use. If you are behind a broadband router, you may not need a firewall on your PC. Check security settings on your router.

11. Clear the Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) state and AutoComplete history: open IE, open Tools menu, choose Internet Options, navigate to Content tab. Under Certificates, click Clear SSL State.

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Click OK when you receive the message that the SSL cache was successfully cleared. Under Personal information, click AutoComplete. Under Clear AutoComplete history, click Clear Forms. Click OK when you are prompted to confirm the operation.

12. Verify that the Date and Time Settings on your computer are correct: because SSL certificates have an expiry date, if the date on your computer isn't correct, it may prevent you from connecting to secure sites.

 

Good luck!


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