Assuming SSL certificates are universally compatible with server configurations and browsers; prioritizing installation over compatibility; insufficient expertise with SSL protocols; relying on the server or web host’s default SSL configurations.
As of 2024, almost 320 million SSL certificates were online, but not all of them are universally compatible with browsers. This compatibility plays a key role when securing a website. If the browser does not recognize the root SSL certificate, it will display a security warning and fail to establish verified communication. The website visitor will be bounced from the site, among other adverse effects, potentially reducing business transactions and turnover. The more browsers recognize the certificate, the higher the website’s visibility.
If the certificate authority’s root certificate is included in the browser’s “trusted root certificate” store, the browser will recognize the SSL certificate. The browser or OS vendor (Microsoft, Netscape, etc.) adds root certificates to the store.
SSL certificates from GeoTrust, Comodo, Thawte, Symantec, and other reputable certificate authorities are compatible with more than 99% of desktop and mobile browsers. One shouldn’t necessarily rely on the default SSL configurations provided by the web hosting service.
SSL-enabled web browsers
- Google Chrome
- Microsoft IE 5.01+
- Mozilla Firefox 1.0+
- Netscape Communicator 4.51+
- Mozilla Suite 1.0+
- Opera 7+
- AOL 5+, etc.
SSL-compatible web servers
- Apache + MOD SSL
- Apache + SSLeay
- Apache + Raven 1.5x
- Android 2.3+
- BEA WebLogic
- Micro Browsers (SSL enabled)
- C2Net Stronghold
- Apple iOS
- Opera 7.0+
- Netfront 3.0+, etc.
Email clients
- Mozilla Thunderbird 1.0+
- Mulberry Email 3.1.6+
- Microsoft Outlook 99+
- Lotus Notes, etc.
Reasons for overlooking SSL certificate compatibility in server configurations
SSL/TLS protocols and cipher suites have different compatibility levels across devices and browsers. Ensuring proper configuration requires knowledge of these protocols and regular updates as older protocols (e.g., TLS 1.0, 1.1) are deprecated. This complexity can lead to misconfigurations or neglect.
Obtaining an SSL certificate often gets more attention than integrating it properly into the server. Administrators might focus on installation once a certificate is issued rather than ensuring compatibility with varying client-side environments.
Many administrators assume that SSL/TLS certificates are universally compatible with all browsers, devices, and server configurations. They may not account for older devices or specific configurations that require tailored solutions.
Comprehensive testing for compatibility across different browsers and operating systems can be time-consuming. Many administrators test SSL configurations in limited environments, failing to consider edge cases or older client devices.
How to troubleshoot compatibility issues
When a user is having issues with an SSL certificate, they can use free tools to run diagnostics, such as the DigiCert Installation Diagnostics. It will also help find the source of the problem with the certificate.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can’t I just turn SSL verification requests off?
If you do that, anyone can spoof the certificate and intercept traffic. While the data remains encrypted due to the TLS confidentiality guarantee, you’re practically sending the encrypted content to anyone because you didn’t authenticate the remote part. The recipient could be an attacker who will read the content as plain rather than encrypted.
Two of the main TLS features are confidentiality and authentication. The latter is more important because you gain nothing by sending encrypted content when you haven’t validated the remote party.
How many websites are at risk due to using outdated SSL certificates?
As of 2024, almost half (40%) of websites are using older SSL ciphers, which can present a security risk. Just 82% of websites’ SSL certificates are valid, with the other 18% facing security risks. Less than 43% of websites use the latest SSL version, TLS 1.3.
Apart from security, what are the risks of overlooking SSL certificate compatibility?
Older devices or browsers may fail to establish connections if the SSL configuration doesn’t support backward compatibility or uses ciphers/protocols they cannot handle. A subset of your audience, especially those using older systems or devices, may be unable to access your site, reducing your reach and engagement.
Priya Mervana
Verified Web Security Experts
Priya Mervana is working at SSLInsights.com as a web security expert with over 10 years of experience writing about encryption, SSL certificates, and online privacy. She aims to make complex security topics easily understandable for everyday internet users.
