Knowledgebase

Android Certificate Errors on Older Devices (Firstserv Guide)

Some older Android devices (typically Android 7 / Nougat or earlier) may display SSL certificate errors when trying to connect to your Firstserv email account.

Why This Happens

• Older Android versions no longer support newer SSL certificates
• This is due to updates from Let’s Encrypt, which modern systems use for secure connections
• As a result, older devices may fail to validate secure connections correctly

Important Warning

⚠️ Security Notice

• Accepting unsupported certificates may allow your email app to connect
• However, this reduces security and may expose your data to risk
• Your device will no longer warn you about invalid or unsafe connections

✅ Recommended solution:
Upgrade to a newer Android version or device that supports current security standards.

Optional Workaround (Not Recommended)

If you understand the risks and still wish to proceed, you can manually accept all certificates in your email settings.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Open Settings on your Android device
2. Tap Accounts (or Accounts & Sync, depending on device)
3. Select your email account
   • Usually listed as Personal (IMAP)
4. Open your Mail Server Settings

Modify Security Settings

You may see separate options for:

• Incoming server settings
• Outgoing server settings

For each, change:

• Security Type:

  SSL/TLS (Accept all certificates)
  

1. Tap Done or Next to save
2. Allow the app to revalidate the connection

What This Does

• Allows your device to connect despite certificate issues
• Disables strict certificate validation

⚠️ This means your connection may not be fully secure

Recommended Best Practice

• ✅ Upgrade to a newer Android version
• ✅ Use supported email apps and devices
• ✅ Avoid disabling certificate validation long-term

Summary

• Certificate errors on older Android devices are caused by outdated SSL support
• A workaround exists but introduces security risks
• The safest solution is to use a modern, supported device

If you need help checking compatibility or exploring secure alternatives, the Firstserv support team is always happy to assist.