4 min readUpdated May 18, 2025

Fixing SSL Issues in Node.js: Resolving error:0308010C:digital envelope routines::unsupported

This article provides a comprehensive guide to fixing the error `error:0308010C:digital envelope routines::unsupported` commonly encountered in Node.js projects.

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JavaScriptTypeScriptC++Backend DevelopmentSystem Programming

Fixing SSL Issues in Node.js: Resolving the "Digital Envelope Routines::Unsupported" Error

Are you encountering the frustrating error:0308010C:digital envelope routines::unsupported issue in your Node.js project? This error typically arises when your project relies on an outdated version of SSL. Worry not! This article provides four practical solutions to resolve this issue, ranging from quick fixes to more sustainable approaches.

The Error: A Quick Overview

The error:0308010C:digital envelope routines::unsupported error occurs when your Node.js project uses an obsolete version of SSL. This error can be resolved by implementing one of the four solutions outlined below.

Option 1: Rerun npm install

A simple and quick solution is to delete the node_modules folder and run npm install again. This approach can resolve the issue because the dependency may be compiled against the version of Node.js installed, which could be outdated.

Pros and Cons:

  • Easy and quick to implement
  • No coding changes required
  • May not work if the dependency relies on an old version of Node.js
  • Not a sustainable solution, as the issue may persist

Option 2: Update Dependencies

The recommended solution is to update your dependencies to a version compatible with Node.js 18. This approach ensures compatibility with the latest security patches and fixes, future-proofs your project, and reduces the risk of exposing your project to insecure code.

Pros and Cons:

  • Ensures compatibility with the latest security patches and fixes
  • Future-proofs the project against potential issues
  • Reduces the risk of exposing the project to insecure code
  • May require changes to the code or configuration files
  • May involve some downtime or maintenance

Option 3: Downgrade Node.js

Downgrading Node.js to a version that uses the old, insecure version of LibSSL can allow your project to run. However, this approach is not recommended, as it leaves your project vulnerable to attacks and exploits.

Pros and Cons:

  • Allows the project to run temporarily
  • May be a quick fix for immediate issues
  • Leaves the project vulnerable to attacks and exploits
  • Does not address the underlying issue or provide a sustainable solution

Option 4: Use the Legacy OpenSSL Provider

Enabling the legacy OpenSSL provider allows your project to run using the old SSL version. However, this approach is not recommended, as it is a temporary fix and may cause compatibility issues in the future.

Pros and Cons:

  • May allow the project to run temporarily
  • Can be useful for testing or debugging purposes
  • Is a temporary fix and not a sustainable solution
  • May cause compatibility issues or errors in the future

Final thoughts

Resolving the error:0308010C:digital envelope routines::unsupported issue requires a thorough understanding of the problem and the available solutions. As a developer, it is essential to prioritize security and compatibility when updating dependencies. The recommended solution is to update dependencies to a version compatible with Node.js 18. By doing so, you can ensure the security and integrity of your project.

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