How to Fix Not Secure Website in Chrome Windows 10
If you’re seeing the "Not Secure" warning on a website in Chrome on Windows 10, it means the site isn’t using HTTPS. To fix this, you need to either update the website yourself if you’re the owner or contact the site admin. For regular users, tweaking your browser settings might help temporarily.
Step-by-Step Tutorial on How to Fix Not Secure Website in Chrome Windows 10
In this section, we’ll go through a step-by-step tutorial on how to address the "Not Secure" warning in Chrome on Windows 10. This will include both temporary fixes for users and permanent solutions for website owners.
Step 1: Check the Website URL
Step 1: Ensure the website URL starts with "https://".
Most secured websites use HTTPS. If a website URL starts with "http://" instead of "https://", it’s not secure. Simply add the ‘s’ in the URL and refresh the page.
Step 2: Update Chrome Browser
Step 2: Update your Chrome browser to the latest version.
An outdated browser can sometimes misinterpret security certificates. Go to the Chrome menu, select "Help," then "About Google Chrome" to see if an update is available.
Step 3: Clear Browser Cache
Step 3: Clear your browser cache and cookies.
Old cache and cookies can sometimes cause security hiccups. Head to the Chrome menu, click on "More tools," then "Clear browsing data," and select cookies and cached files.
Step 4: Check Date and Time Settings
Step 4: Verify your computer’s date and time settings.
Incorrect date and time settings can interfere with SSL certificates. Right-click the date and time on the taskbar, select "Adjust date/time," and make sure everything is correct.
Step 5: Contact Website Administrator
Step 5: Contact the website administrator to update their SSL certificate.
If you’re the website owner, you’ll need to purchase and install an SSL certificate. For visitors, get in touch with the admin and inform them of the issue.
After you follow these steps, the "Not Secure" warning should disappear if the website has a valid SSL certificate and the browser settings are properly configured.
Tips for Fixing Not Secure Website in Chrome Windows 10
- Use HTTPS Everywhere Extension: Install the HTTPS Everywhere extension to automatically switch sites from insecure "http" to secure "https".
- Check SSL Certificate: Tools like SSL Labs’ SSL Test can help you check the SSL certificate of a website.
- Avoid Public Wi-Fi: Public Wi-Fi networks are less secure, which can trigger warnings.
- Disable Chrome Extensions: Sometimes, extensions can interfere with SSL certificates. Try disabling them to see if it helps.
- Use a Reliable Hosting Service: If you own the website, make sure your hosting provider offers SSL certificates and supports HTTPS.
Frequently Asked Questions About How to Fix Not Secure Website in Chrome Windows 10
Why does Chrome show a "Not Secure" warning?
Chrome displays this warning when a website doesn’t use HTTPS or has an invalid SSL certificate.
Can I ignore the "Not Secure" warning?
You can, but it’s not recommended because it indicates that your data might not be safe.
How do I get an SSL certificate for my website?
You can purchase an SSL certificate from various providers or get one for free from services like Let’s Encrypt.
Will the "Not Secure" warning affect my website’s SEO?
Yes, Google considers HTTPS as a ranking signal, and a "Not Secure" warning can negatively impact your SEO.
Is it safe to enter personal information on a "Not Secure" site?
No, avoid entering any sensitive information on a site marked as "Not Secure."
Summary
- Check the Website URL
- Update Chrome Browser
- Clear Browser Cache
- Check Date and Time Settings
- Contact Website Administrator
Conclusion
Fixing the "Not Secure" warning in Chrome on Windows 10 is crucial for your online safety. Whether you’re a website owner or just a user, knowing how to resolve this can protect your data and improve your browsing experience. For website owners, updating to HTTPS is a long-term solution that can also boost SEO. For users, simple tweaks like updating your browser and clearing the cache can make a difference. Always be vigilant about your online security and make these adjustments as necessary to ensure a safer internet experience.
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.