receiving error: "Error: SSL Error: SELF_SIGNED_CERT_IN_CHAIN" while using npm

📝 Title: Fixing the 'SSL Error: SELF_SIGNED_CERT_IN_CHAIN' Error in npm

💡 Introduction: Are you encountering the frustrating 'Error: SSL Error: SELF_SIGNED_CERT_IN_CHAIN' while using npm? You're not alone! This error often occurs when npm tries to resolve URLs with self-signed certificates. In this article, we will explore common causes of this error and provide easy-to-implement solutions. Let's dive in!

🔍 Understanding the error: The error message you posted indicates that npm is encountering an SSL error with a self-signed certificate. This means that the SSL certificate being used is not issued by a trusted certificate authority. When npm attempts to connect to the URL, it detects this issue and throws the error.

🔧 Resolving the error: Fortunately, there are a few methods you can try to resolve this error:

1. Ignoring SSL errors temporarily: In some cases, you may be able to ignore SSL errors temporarily to continue using npm. Run the following command in your terminal:

   npm config set strict-ssl false

   However, keep in mind that this solution bypasses SSL verification, which may pose security risks. It is recommended to use this option only in a development environment.

2. Adding the self-signed certificate to the trusted store: To resolve the error permanently, you can add the self-signed certificate to the trusted store of your operating system. This varies depending on your OS, but here's a general overview:

   • Linux: You can add the cert to the trusted store by following these steps:

     • Export the self-signed certificate (e.g., cert.pem).

     • Move the exported certificate to the /usr/local/share/ca-certificates/ directory.

     • Run the following command to update the trusted store:

       sudo update-ca-certificates

   • Windows: Import the self-signed certificate into the trusted root certification authorities using the Certificate Manager. You can access it by searching for "certmgr.msc" in the Start menu.

   • MacOS: To import the certificate into the keychain, double-click the exported certificate file and follow the prompts.

   After adding the certificate, restart your system and try running npm again.

3. Upgrading npm: If you're using an older version of npm, it's recommended to upgrade to the latest version. Run the following command to update npm:

   npm install -g npm@latest

   Upgrading npm may resolve any underlying compatibility issues and help eliminate the SSL error.

📣 Conclusion and Call-to-Action: We've explored the 'SSL Error: SELF_SIGNED_CERT_IN_CHAIN' error in npm and provided you with easy solutions to resolve it. Remember to assess the security implications before temporarily ignoring SSL errors. Adding the self-signed certificate to the trusted store or upgrading npm can provide a more permanent and secure solution.

Have you encountered any other npm errors? Let us know in the comments below! Don't forget to share this article with fellow developers who might find it helpful. Happy coding! 💻✨