Fixing the "ssl_error_rx_record_too_long" Error in WordPress

What is the "ssl_error_rx_record_too_long" Error?

When using Firefox, you might encounter an error code: "ssl_error_rx_record_too_long". This error typically appears when trying to establish a secure connection to a WordPress site. The underlying cause is often related to the SSL configuration on the server. Simply put, it happens when the port a client is trying to connect to is open on the server, but the SSL certificate isn't properly configured for that port.

Diagnosing the Error

To delve deeper into this issue, you can use tools like OpenSSL. By running a command like openssl s_client -connect yourdomain.tld:port, you get a detailed view of what's happening during the SSL handshake process. If the SSL certificate is misconfigured, you'll likely see an error message indicating an "unknown protocol". Network analyzing tools like Wireshark can also provide insights into such connection failures.

Common Causes and Solutions

Misconfigured VirtualHost or Incorrect Port

The error is often linked to web servers like Apache or nginx, and is usually a result of an incorrectly set VirtualHost record. For instance, in Apache, you might encounter this error if there's a "Listen 443" directive without a corresponding VirtualHost record for port 443, or if the record itself is incorrect.

Solution: Check and correct the VirtualHost settings. Ensure that the SSL certificate is properly configured for the port in use (usually port 443).

SSL/TLS Support Issues

Another potential cause is the site's inability to support adequate SSL/TLS protocols (like TLS 1.2 or 1.3).

Solution: Ensure that the server supports the latest SSL/TLS protocols and is configured to use them.

Cache Issues

Sometimes, the problem might stem from a client-side issue, like cached data in your browser.

Solution: Clear your browser cache to ensure you're not loading outdated or incorrect configurations.

Final thoughts

While it's tempting to disable HTTPS as a quick fix, it's strongly discouraged. Not only does this compromise security, but it also signals potential risks to your visitors. If you're not comfortable handling SSL configurations or VirtualHost settings, it's wise to seek assistance from your web hosting provider.

Remember, the "ssl_error_rx_record_too_long" error in WordPress is typically a server-side issue related to SSL configuration. By understanding the common causes and their respective solutions, you can efficiently resolve this error and ensure a secure, seamless experience for your site visitors.