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How to Fix Excel Security Certificate Name Mismatch Warnings
Question details
Users need to resolve a security certificate name mismatch warning in Excel that occasionally causes the application to freeze.
- Product
- Microsoft Excel
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Opening or closing an Excel workbook that relies on external web services or data links with invalid SSL/TLS certificates.
- Observed behavior
- Excel displays a warning stating that the security certificate does not match the website. This warning can also cause Excel to become unresponsive when attempting to close the file.
Before troubleshooting, check that your computer's system date and time are accurate, as an incorrect clock will cause valid security certificates to appear invalid.
Verify Certificate Details and Linked Services
Check the specifics of the security warning and update any outdated external data links in your workbook.
Certificate name mismatches usually occur when an Excel workbook tries to pull data from a URL that uses an IP address or an outdated domain name instead of the exact domain listed on the server's SSL certificate.
When the certificate mismatch warning appears, click on 'View Certificate' to identify which website or service is causing the issue.
Navigate to the 'Data' tab on the Excel ribbon and click on 'Edit Links' or 'Queries & Connections' to view all external data sources tied to the file.
If you find a link using an IP address or an incorrect domain, update the connection properties to use the correct domain name that matches the website's installed security certificate.
Synchronize System Date and Time
Ensure your operating system's date and time are accurate so certificates are validated correctly.
Try WPS Office for a Seamless Spreadsheet Experience
If you frequently encounter security policy errors or unresponsiveness in Microsoft Excel, consider switching to WPS Office. It is a highly compatible, free, and lightweight alternative that handles complex data and external links without unnecessary application freezes.
- 1. Download the App: Visit the official WPS website and download the free WPS Office installation package.
- 2. Install WPS Office: Run the installer and follow the quick on-screen instructions to set up the software.
- 3. Open Your Workbooks: Launch WPS Spreadsheets and open your existing Excel files to continue your work without interruption.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does a certificate name mismatch occur in Excel?
This happens when the domain name used in the workbook's external data link does not perfectly match the domain name registered on the host server's SSL/TLS certificate. Using an IP address instead of a domain name is a common trigger.
How do I stop Excel from freezing when this warning appears?
Excel may become unresponsive if it is waiting for your input on a security prompt that has been hidden behind other windows. Minimize your active windows to locate the certificate warning dialog and choose to accept or cancel the connection.
Is it safe to click 'Yes' to proceed with the connection?
You should only click 'Yes' to continue if you are absolutely certain the external service is legitimate and secure. If you do not recognize the URL or do not trust the source, click 'No' to protect your system from potential data risks.
Can I disable these certificate warnings permanently?
While it is technically possible to alter registry settings to suppress these warnings, Microsoft strongly advises against doing so. Ignoring certificate errors permanently exposes your computer and data to severe security vulnerabilities.
