How To Fix The ERR_SSL_BAD_RECORD_MAC_ALERT Chrome Error: A Quick Guide

The internet is one of the most essential tools in our modern lives. We use it for everything, from our work to personal entertainment. But, sometimes we encounter an annoying error message while accessing a website. 

Have you ever run into the ERR_SSL_BAD_RECORD_MAC_ALERT error while browsing in Google Chrome?

If yes, then you know how frustrating it can be when you’re trying to access a site and all you get is an error message! This error can prevent you from accessing any website, leading to serious inconvenience.

This error typically occurs when there are problems with the SSL connection between the website and your browser. Luckily, there are many ways to resolve this issue quickly and efficiently. 

In this post, I will discuss the causes of the ERR_SSL_BAD_RECORD_MAC_ALERT error. I will also share five fixes to help you get back to a seamless browsing experience.

What Is The ERR_SSL_BAD_RECORD_MAC_ALERT Error?

The ERR_SSL_BAD_RECORD_MAC_ALERT is a security error that occurs while using Google Chrome. This error typically indicates that there has been an issue with the SSL/TLS encryption process.  

It usually happens when your server and your browser have different ideas of the level of security. And it results in the server sending an incorrect encrypted message.

Unfortunately, this error can occur at any time, regardless of which trusted sites you are trying to access.

What Are The Causes For The ERR_SSL_BAD_RECORD_MAC_ALERT Error Message?

There are several possible reasons that can cause the ERR_SSL_BAD_RECORD_MAC_ALERT error. Some common causes are:

1. An outdated version of the Google Chrome browser
2. An outdated version of your Operating System
3. A problematic antivirus or firewall program that intercepts the SSL traffic
4. A problematic network adapter or Killer Network Card
5. A router configuration that is not set correctly, such as MTU (maximum transmission unit) size.If all these causes for the SSL errors seem too complicated for you, don’t worry. I’m breaking down each case in simple language below and offering a fix for each one of them!

How To Fix the ERR_SSL_BAD_RECORD_MAC_ALERT Error: 5 Solutions

Note: Many troubleshooting chats have shared plugging in an Ethernet cable to check if the ERR_SSL_BAD_RECORD_MAC_ALERT error message persists. But, few people have an Ethernet cable lying around to test this hack. If you do have access to one, feel free to plug it in and check if the error still persists. This Ethernet cable test doesn’t solve the issue with your error message, the fixes below are the ones we recommend you run regardless of access to an Ethernet cable.

In the meantime, below are some fixes that can help you resolve the ERR_SSL_BAD_RECORD_MAC_ALERT error message:

#1. Update Google Chrome To The Latest Version

One of the common reasons for getting the ERR_SSL_BAD_RECORD_MAC_ALERT error is using an outdated version of Google Chrome. Chrome updates often include important security fixes that contribute to a smooth browsing experience.

To update Google Chrome, go to the Chrome menu, select Help, and then click on About Google Chrome. If an update is available, install it. 

Check out the screenshot below for a visual aid. 

#2. Update Your Operating System

Make sure that your operating system is up-to-date. This includes all the software and security updates. 

If your operating system is outdated, it may be causing compatibility issues with the browser, leading to the ERR_SSL_BAD_RECORD_MAC_ALERT error.

I’m on a MAC operating system, and the screenshot below shows how to check if you need to update your OS on a MacBook.

#3. Disable HTTPS Inspection in Your Antivirus Software

Some antivirus software is set up to inspect SSL traffic to prevent malicious attacks, which may cause the ERR_SSL_BAD_RECORD_MAC_ALERT error. 

To resolve this, you can disable HTTPS inspection in the antivirus software. This process varies depending on which software you are using. However, instructions are typically available on the vendor’s website.

#4. Upgrade or Deactivate Your Network Adapter or Killer Network Card

If the server and the browser have different levels of security ideas, this can cause a conflict between them. If you are using a network adapter or a Killer network card, upgrading or deactivating them completely can help resolve the issue. 

In case you’re unfamiliar with what is a killer control center, below is Intel’s explanation of what their control center does:

The Intel Killer Control Center is the program that examines your applications and sets priority so that your most speed-critical applications get first access to your bandwidth. Without it, every application that uses your Internet connection gets equal treatment, which can cause noticeably slower speeds.

You can navigate to your killer control center or Killer network card’s settings, where you can update the driver or deactivate the device.

#5. Changing the Router’s MTU To 1400

Several users who encountered the problematic ERR_SSL_BAD_RECORD_MAC_ALERT error message managed to fix the issue entirely by changing the involved routers’ MTU value to 1400.

How to adjust your transmission unit depends on your router manufacturer and their router’s settings. 

The MTU (Maximum Transmission Unit) size of the router can sometimes cause the ERR_SSL_BAD_RECORD_MAC_ALERT error. You can try changing the MTU size of the router to 1400 to resolve this issue.

Click here for instructions from Netgear to change their router’s settings.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the ERR_SSL_BAD_RECORD_MAC_ALERT error can cause annoying interruptions when browsing the web. However, there are many solutions that can help resolve this issue.

Updating Google Chrome, and operating systems, disabling HTTPS inspection inside your Antivirus software, upgrading network adapters, and changing the router’s MTU size can ensure a smooth and uninterrupted browsing experience.

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