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mmishra_FTNT
Staff
Staff
March 25, 2026

Technical Tip: Common name invalid error for self-signed certificate used for device access

  • March 25, 2026
  • 0 replies
  • 166 views
Description This article describes where the common name invalid error is seen, even when the common name is correctly defined.
Scope FortiGate, FortiAnalyzer, FortiManager.
Solution

The issue would be observed in cases where a self-signed certificate is used for device access. In most cases, this error on browser while accessing the device when the common name is incorrectly defined, or the device is accessed using IP when the common name defined is that of the domain.

 

This error is also seen in more recent versions of browsers, where the SAN name is mandatory in the certificate presented.

 

mmishra_FTNT_0-1774434306397.png


So, generate a certificate with the SAN field to avoid getting this error:
Technical Tip: How to sign a certificate with Subject Alternate Name (SAN)

 

Requirement of SAN name in certificate:
NET::ERR_CERT_COMMON_NAME_INVALID in Chrome but not in IE

The IIS website is not secure on Edge Browser but the same site is secure on Internet Explorer

 

After using SAN name the error will not be visible.