When going to access a website via Cloudflare’s network, the browser error known as PR_END_OF_FILE_ERROR in Cloudflare usually signifies an issue with the SSL/TLS connection. Let’s discuss some of the quick ways in which we fix the error in this article. As part of our Server Management Service, Bobcares provides answers to all of your Cloudflare questions.

Overview

1. More on PR_END_OF_FILE_ERROR in Cloudflare
2. Causes & Fixes of PR_END_OF_FILE_ERROR
3. How to Troubleshoot?
4. Conclusion

More on PR_END_OF_FILE_ERROR in Cloudflare

The PR_END_OF_FILE_ERROR in Cloudflare is a browser error that usually indicates an issue with the SSL/TLS connection when attempting to access a website through Cloudflare’s network. This error can occur in browsers like Firefox when trying to establish a secure connection (HTTPS) with a web server. Essentially, it signifies that the connection was unexpectedly terminated, preventing the browser from completing the SSL/TLS handshake, which is essential for establishing a secure session.

Causes & Fixes of PR_END_OF_FILE_ERROR

1. Misconfigured SSL/TLS Settings on the Server

If the server’s SSL/TLS settings are not properly configured or are incompatible with the protocols expected by the browser, the connection may fail during the handshake process. This could result from using an outdated or unsupported TLS version or incorrectly configured ciphers.

Fix:

Ensure that the web server is set up to use modern and compatible SSL/TLS settings. Update to the latest TLS version (preferably TLS 1.2 or 1.3) and employ strong ciphers.

2. Server or Firewall Blocking the Connection

Sometimes, either the server or an intermediary firewall may block certain secure connections, leading to this error. This can occur if the server is configured to reject connections that do not meet specific security criteria.

Fix:

We must check the server’s firewall or security settings to confirm that they allow SSL/TLS traffic and are not blocking legitimate requests. Adjust any security modules or Web Application Firewalls (WAF) that may be interfering.

3. Browser Issues

The error may also arise from problems within the browser itself, such as outdated versions, corrupted profiles, or conflicting extensions/add-ons. Certain security or privacy settings might block the SSL/TLS handshake.

Fix:

i. We must ensure we are using the latest version of the browser.

ii. Disable all extensions and add-ons to determine if one of them is causing the issue.

iii. Clear the browser cache and cookies, or try accessing the site in a private/incognito window.

iv. If profile corruption is suspected, create a new browser profile to see if the issue persists.

4. Issues with Cloudflare Configuration

Improper configuration of Cloudflare, particularly concerning SSL settings, can lead to this error. If the SSL mode in Cloudflare (e.g., “Flexible,” “Full,” “Full (Strict)”) does not align with the server’s SSL settings, it can cause this issue.

Fix:

i. Ensure that the SSL mode in Cloudflare is set correctly. For example, “Full (Strict)” mode requires a valid SSL certificate on the server, while “Flexible” does not.

ii. Confirm that the SSL certificate on the origin server is valid and correctly installed.

iii. Temporarily pausing Cloudflare can help determine if the issue lies with Cloudflare’s configuration or the server itself.

5. Expired or Revoked SSL Certificates

If an SSL certificate on the server has expired or been revoked, browsers will not trust the connection, resulting in this error.

Fix:

Verify that the SSL certificates are valid and have not expired or been revoked. Renew them if necessary.

6. Intermediate Certificate Issues

Problems may arise from intermediate certificates that are not properly configured or included in the certificate chain.

Fix:

Ensure that intermediate certificates are correctly installed and that the full certificate chain is presented to browsers.

How to Troubleshoot?

• Test on Different Browsers/Devices: This helps identify if the issue is specific to one browser or device.

• Use Online SSL Checkers: Tools like SSL Labs’ SSL Test can help diagnose server-side SSL/TLS configuration issues.

• Review Browser Console Logs: Check the browser’s console logs for more detailed error messages.

• Check Cloudflare Status: Visit Cloudflare’s status page to see if there are any ongoing incidents affecting the site.

By addressing these potential causes and troubleshooting steps, we can effectively resolve PR_END_OF_FILE_ERROR issues when using Cloudflare.

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Conclusion

A frequent problem that may interfere with safe connections between web servers and browsers is the PR_END_OF_FILE_ERROR in Cloudflare. We can take the necessary actions to troubleshoot and fix the issue by being aware of its possible causes, which include incorrectly configured SSL/TLS settings, server or firewall blocks, browser problems, and Cloudflare configuration flaws. Maintaining a smooth surfing experience for users may be achieved by making sure that the SSL certificates are valid and that the server configurations are in line with contemporary security requirements. Frequent updates and monitoring can stop this problem from happening again.