Outlook error - bad certificate format 9808

 

When configuring email for the first time, you might get the following error:

Host mail.yourdomain.com doesn't respond. Error with secure connection, bad certificate format 9808

 

Applies To:

This guide applies to eXceed Email.

 

Step 1: Check Date and Time


An incorrect date/time on your device can trigger this error. Check if your device's date/time is correct.

Proceed to the next step if the issue persists.

 

Step 2: Verify Mail Server Settings


  • Go to Outlook > File > Info > Account Settings > Server Settings.

    Or, Outlook > File > Info > Account Settings > Account Settings.


  • Check if the incoming and outgoing mail server settings are correct.

    These settings were sent to you in the account information email when your service was activated.

    You can view the email from Client Area > Hello! YourName > Email History.


  • Done!

Proceed to the next step if the issue persists.

 

Step 3: Check Antivirus/Firewall


Some security software can block or interfere with SSL/TLS connections.

Temporarily disable your antivirus and firewall and check if the issue resolves. If it does, whitelist Outlook in your security software.

Proceed to the next step if the issue persists.

 

Step 4: Enable SSL/TLS Protocols


An incorrect date/time on your device can trigger this error. Check if your device's date/time is correct.

  1. Open "Internet Options" on your PC (search using "Internet Options" in the Start menu).

  2. Go to the "Advanced" tab (or Security > Advanced) and enable the following options:

    [*] SSL 3.0
    [*] TLS 1.0

  3. Click "OK".

  4. Done!

 

Step 5: Repair or Reinstall Outlook


If none of the above steps work, Outlook's files or the related data files might be corrupted. Consider using a tool or the built-in Microsoft Office repair function.

The issue should now have been resolved.

 

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