What Is NET::ERR_CERT_DATE_INVALID Error on Chrome?

Chrome is one of the leading online browsing platforms with close to 3 billion users. The platform is reliable and has an extensive database, providing users with detailed information. Thanks to its vast ecosystem that integrates smoothly, users can seamlessly jump from one Google product to the other. However, at times users cannot access Chrome due to the NET::ERR_CERT_DATE_INVALID error.

The NET::ERR_CERT_DATE_INVALID error, which at times is classified as Your Connection is Not Private, hinders access to certain web pages. This occurs even if the site is real or trustworthy. When it appears, it blocks the user from enjoying a seamless browsing experience, as well as access to the necessary pages.

The NET::ERR_CERT_DATE_INVALID error also indicates that either your internet connection or the device is preventing access to the page due to it being insecure or presenting privacy risks. Therefore, with such an error in play, users cannot access sites such as YouTube, Facebook, Google, and other legitimate web pages.

How to Fix NET::ERR_CERT_DATE_INVALID Error on Chrome?

Usually, people who encounter this error just close and reopen the browser to fix the issue. This, more than a simple trick, can help. However, there are cases when the error is triggered by a potentially unwanted program (PUP). In such a scenario, simply closing and reopening the browser won’t help since malware will be involved.

What Causes NET::ERR_CERT_DATE_INVALID Error on Chrome?

If the damage caused by malware is not severe, you can work on your own and try to get rid of the problem. However, if the damage runs deep into some of the sensitive system components, an IT expert will be needed to revive your computer. This is the reason why you should stay vigilant of malware symptoms and act fast before the damage can reach a point of no return.

We advise running a strong and trusted anti-malware security suite to detect any malware that might be causing the NET::ERR_CERT_DATE_INVALID error. We have also prepared a comprehensive guide to help fix and stop the Your Connection is Not Private error message. It is best to apply all of the presented solutions for better results.

What to Do About the NET::ERR_CERT_DATE_INVALID Error on Chrome?

It is important to act immediately and conduct a thorough investigation when you encounter the NET::ERR_CERT_DATE_INVALID error. The quick fix, which involves closing and relaunching the browser, may work but will not fix the underlying cause of the issue. Moreover, it only works temporarily. Therefore, it’s best to take the bull by its horns and get rid of the cause.

Unfortunately, there are no known causes of the problem. This means it’s a matter of cleaning up your system and freeing it from malware to get rid of the problem. Regardless, tech experts suggest the following tips can help fix the issue:

1. Disconnect from the current network – If connected to a public network, your connection might not be secure. So, if the NET::ERR_CERT_DATE_INVALID error occurs while on a public network, we advise stopping your browsing session and connecting to a secure network.
2. Perform a full system scan – Use a professional and trusted anti-malware security tool to detect any malicious content within the system. The security utility can identify malware that might be the potential cause of the NET::ERR_CERT_DATE_INVALID error. As already indicated, it can be a corrupt application or a virus that interrupted with the functionality of the Google Chrome browser.
3. Remove unknown browser extensions – Usually, adware or malware can add dubious extensions to the browser without the affected user knowing. This is done so that the user’s browsing activities are monitored and vital information captured. Your internet provider or device can sense such behavior and trigger the NET::ERR_CERT_DATE_INVALID error. Therefore, you must go through the list of installed third-party browser extensions and remove them.
4. Reinstall the Chrome browser – Reinstalling the browser means you are deleting all files that might be corrupt and replacing them with new ones. Although this measure will delete some data, personal preferences can be regained if synched to your Google account.
5. Configure Date and Time – If your date and time parameters are not set correctly, the NET::ERR_CERT_DATE_INVALID error is bound to happen. So, you must make sure your system’s date and time as well as the region are correctly set.

If none of the above simple approaches manages to fix the issue, you may try out the methods below.

Solution #1: Clear Chrome’s Browser Cache

1. Access Chrome and click on the 3 dotted menu icon.
2. Access History from the emerging menu before selecting Clear browsing data.
3. Select the option to clear both history and cache.
4. When done, close and reopen the browser.

Solution #2: Deactivate Windows Firewall Temporarily

This temporary measure is done to check if the issue is triggered by security settings or not.

1. Press the Windows key and type Firewall into the text field before hitting the Enter key.
2. Now, Turn off Windows Firewall, and then check if the problem persists.

Solution #3: Use Google DNS Servers Instead of the Current Ones

1. Press the Windows key and type Control Panel before hitting the Enter key.
2. Now, access Network & Sharing settings.
3. Find your network adapter and right-click on it.
4. Choose Properties, and then click on Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4)
5. Now, open the Properties tab.
6. Under the General tab, check the section titled Use the following DNS server addresses:. And then, put the following number in each column:
   8.8.8.8
   8.8.4.4
7. Click on the OK button to apply the changes.
8. Restart the computer.

Solution #4: Change Network & Sharing Settings

1. Access the Control Panel window as shown in the previous solution.
2. This time, select Network & Sharing Center.
3. Click on Change advanced sharing settings.
4. Click to expand the section labelled Home or work network (Current profile) and Public Network.
5. Find the options titled Network Discovery, File and printer sharing, as well as Public Folder Sharing, and disable them.
6. Activate the option Password protected sharing.
7. Restart the computer.

Conclusion

Most of the system errors stem from malware infection cases. But you can always avoid such stressful encounters by installing a reliable anti-malware software utility to fight off virus attacks. Such a security tool can help protect your sensitive data and keep your computer at its optimum performance.