Why did my Webflow site stop working with a 526 error after using Cloudflare's proxy DNS?
TL;DR
- Verify SSL/TLS certificate on Webflow to ensure it's active and check for recent changes.
- Log into Cloudflare and set SSL/TLS settings to "Full" or "Full (strict)".
- Clear cached SSL certificates from Cloudflare if recently updated.
- Ensure DNS settings are accurate and proxying is enabled with an orange cloud icon.
- Contact Webflow or Cloudflare support if the issue remains unresolved.
The 526 Invalid SSL Certificate error occurs when Cloudflare cannot validate the SSL/TLS certificate provided by the origin server. Here's how to address this issue effectively:
1. Verify SSL/TLS Certificate on Webflow
- Ensure the SSL/TLS certificate on your Webflow site is active and not expired.
- Check any recent changes you might have made to your SSL settings in Webflow that could affect the certificate.
2. Check Cloudflare SSL/TLS Settings
- Log into your Cloudflare account and go to the SSL/TLS settings for your domain.
- Set the SSL/TLS encryption mode to "Full" or "Full (strict)" based on the certificate validation you require. "Flexible" mode can cause issues with SSL-protected Webflow sites.
3. Revalidate SSL Certificate
- If the certificate recently changed, clear any cached SSL certificates from Cloudflare's edge servers. You can do this under the “Caching” section by selecting “Purge Everything.”
4. Update DNS Settings
- Ensure A records are correct using (a) 75.2.70.75 and (b) 99.83.190.102 in your DNS settings, pointing to Webflow if you are not using a CNAME setup.
- Make sure that the cloud icon beside the DNS entries is orange, indicating proxying is enabled.
5. Contact Webflow or Cloudflare Support
- If the issue persists, contact Webflow support for further assistance. They can check if there are specific issues with SSL configuration at their end.
- Reach out to Cloudflare support for detailed insights if they're needed on how your account specifically might be affected.
Summary
To resolve a 526 error, verify your SSL certificate status in Webflow, check and adjust Cloudflare’s SSL settings, and ensure all DNS configurations are correct. Reaching out to support teams may be required if the issue continues.