How to Fix SSL Pending Issues on Your Shopify Store

Are you facing an SSL pending issue with your Shopify store? You’re not alone. Many store owners encounter this problem, especially when setting up their domain or making changes to their DNS settings. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the common causes of SSL pending issues and provide step-by-step solutions to get your SSL certificate up and running.

Understanding SSL Certificates and Their Importance

What is an SSL Certificate?

SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) certificates are crucial for e-commerce websites. They encrypt data transmitted between a user’s browser and your website, ensuring that sensitive information like credit card details remains secure.

Why is SSL Important for Your Shopify Store?

Having a valid SSL certificate not only protects your customers’ data but also builds trust. It’s a visual indicator (the padlock icon in the browser) that your site is secure, which can significantly impact conversion rates.

The Impact of SSL Pending Status

When your SSL is pending, it means your site isn’t fully secure. This can prevent customers from completing purchases and may negatively affect your search engine rankings.

Common Causes of SSL Pending Issues

Multiple A Records

One of the most frequent causes of SSL pending issues is the presence of multiple A records in your DNS settings. This can confuse the SSL certificate issuance process.

Incorrect CNAME Records

Another common issue is incorrect or missing CNAME records, which are essential for properly connecting your domain to Shopify.

Domain Propagation Delays

Sometimes, the issue isn’t with your settings but with the time it takes for DNS changes to propagate across the internet. This can take up to 72 hours in some cases.

How to Resolve SSL Pending Issues

Checking Your DNS Settings

The first step in resolving SSL pending issues is to check your DNS settings. You can use online tools to view your current DNS configuration.

Removing Duplicate A Records

If you find multiple A records, you’ll need to remove the extras. Keep only one A record pointing to Shopify’s IP address: 23.227.38.65.

Configuring CNAME Records Correctly

Ensure your CNAME record for ‘www’ points to ‘shops.myshopify.com’. This is crucial for proper domain connection.

Waiting for Propagation

After making changes to your DNS settings, be patient. It can take up to 72 hours for changes to fully propagate across the internet.

Step-by-Step Guide to Fixing SSL Pending Issues

Step 1: Access Your DNS Settings

Log into your domain registrar’s control panel to access your DNS settings.

Step 2: Review Existing Records

Carefully review all existing A and CNAME records.

Step 3: Remove Duplicate A Records

If you see multiple A records, remove all but one. The remaining A record should point to 23.227.38.65.

Step 4: Verify CNAME Record

Ensure your CNAME record for ‘www’ points to ‘shops.myshopify.com’.

Step 5: Save Changes and Wait

After making the necessary changes, save your settings and wait for propagation to complete.

Troubleshooting Persistent SSL Issues

Contacting Your Domain Registrar

If you’re unable to make the necessary changes yourself, contact your domain registrar for assistance.

Reaching Out to Shopify Support

For persistent issues, don’t hesitate to contact Shopify support. They can provide personalized assistance and may be able to identify issues not visible from your end.

Considering a Domain Transfer

In some cases, transferring your domain to Shopify’s management can simplify the process and resolve persistent SSL issues.

Best Practices for Maintaining SSL Health

Regular DNS Checks

Perform regular checks of your DNS settings to ensure everything remains correctly configured.

Monitoring SSL Expiration

Keep track of your SSL certificate’s expiration date and renew it in a timely manner.

Staying Informed About Shopify Updates

Stay informed about any changes or updates to Shopify’s SSL requirements or processes.

By following this guide, you should be able to resolve most SSL pending issues on your Shopify store. Remember, the most common solution is to ensure you have only one A record pointing to Shopify’s IP address and a correct CNAME record. If issues persist, don’t hesitate to reach out to Shopify support for further assistance. With a properly configured SSL certificate, you’ll provide a secure shopping experience for your customers and boost your store’s credibility.