iTunes is a popular media player and library application developed by Apple Inc. It is mainly used to manage music, videos, and other multimedia files on Mac and Windows computers. However, sometimes iTunes may encounter errors that prevent it from accessing the iTunes Store or downloading content. One of the most common errors that users face is “iTunes is unable to verify the identity of the server.” In this blog post, we will discuss why this error occurs and how to fix it.
What Causes the Error “iTunes is Unable to Verify Identity of Server”?
The error “iTunes is unable to verify the identity of the server” typically occurs when iTunes cannot establish a secure connection to the iTunes Store or Apple’s servers. Here are some of the common causes of this error:
1. Network Issues
The most common cause of this error is network-related problems. Your internet connection may be interrupted, or there may be a firewall or proxy server blocking the connection. In such situations, iTunes cannot communicate with Apple’s servers, and hence, the error occurs.
2. Outdated Version of iTunes
Another cause of this error is an outdated version of iTunes. Apple regularly releases updates for iTunes, which are necessary to ensure compatibility with the latest iOS versions and security features. If you are running an outdated version of iTunes, you may encounter this error.
3. Corrupted Hosts File
Sometimes, the hosts’ file on your computer may become corrupted, causing iTunes to be unable to connect to the iTunes Store or Apple’s servers. The hosts’ file is a system file that maps hostnames to IP addresses, allowing your computer to locate websites and services on the internet. If the hosts’ file is corrupted, it may interfere with iTunes’ ability to connect to the servers.
How to Fix “iTunes is Unable to Verify Identity of Server” Error
Now that we know the causes of the error, here’s how to fix it:
1. Check Your Network Connection
The first thing you should do is ensure that your internet connection is working correctly. Check if other websites and services are accessible from your computer. If not, troubleshoot your internet connection. If you are using a public Wi-Fi network, it may be blocking access to Apple’s servers. Try using a different Wi-Fi network or a cellular connection.
2. Update iTunes
If you are running an outdated version of iTunes, you should update it to the latest version. Here’s how to do it:
– On Mac, open the App Store and navigate to the Updates section. If there is an update available for iTunes, click Update.
– On Windows, open iTunes and click Help > Check for Updates. Follow the on-screen instructions to install the update.
3. Reset Your Hosts File
If the hosts’ file on your computer is corrupted, you can try resetting it to its default state. Follow these steps to reset the hosts’ file:
– On Mac, launch Terminal and enter the following command:
sudo nano /private/etc/hosts
– On Windows, open Notepad with administrative privileges, and navigate to C:WindowsSystem32driversetchosts
– Remove any lines in the file that reference Apple’s servers or iTunes.
– Save the file and exit.
– Close iTunes and reopen it.
Concluding Thoughts on “iTunes is Unable to Verify Identity of Server” Error
The error “iTunes is unable to verify the identity of the server” is a common issue faced by iTunes users. It occurs when iTunes cannot establish a secure connection to the iTunes Store or Apple’s servers. The most common causes of this error are network issues, outdated versions of iTunes, and corrupted hosts’ files. However, you can easily fix this error by checking your network connection, updating iTunes, or resetting your hosts’ file. If you still encounter this error, you may need to contact Apple’s support team for further assistance.
FAQs about “iTunes is Unable to Verify Identity of Server” Error
Q. Can I still use iTunes even after encountering this error?
A. Yes, you can use iTunes to play your existing music library. However, you will not be able to access the iTunes Store or download new content until you fix the error.
Q. What should I do if resetting the hosts’ file does not fix the error?
A. If resetting the hosts’ file does not fix the error, you may need to consult Apple’s support team for further assistance. You can also try disabling your firewall or antivirus software temporarily to see if it is causing the error.
Q. Why does the hosts’ file become corrupted?
A. The hosts’ file can become corrupted due to various reasons, including malware infections, incomplete software installations, or manual editing of the file. It is generally recommended not to edit the hosts’ file manually unless you know what you are doing.
In conclusion, the error “iTunes is unable to verify the identity of the server” can be frustrating and prevent you from accessing the iTunes Store or downloading new content. However, by following the steps discussed above, you can easily fix this error and get back to enjoying iTunes. Remember to keep your iTunes version up to date and regularly run system scans to prevent any network issues or malware infections.
