Fix iTunes Can’t Verify the Identity of the Server in Seconds

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So you plug in your iPhone, launch iTunes, and BAM! A message hits you:

iTunes can’t verify the identity of the server.

What does that even mean? Should you panic? Should you throw your laptop out the window? 😅

Don’t worry. Take a deep breath. You’re about to fix this in seconds!

Why This Happens

This weird pop-up is usually caused by:

  • Your computer’s date and time are wrong
  • Expired or untrusted security certificates
  • Network glitches or outdated iTunes
  • A confused Mac or PC that just needs a reboot

Let’s go step-by-step and fix this quick.

1. Check Date and Time

Sounds basic, but computers can be dramatic when the date is off.

  • On Mac: Go to System Settings > General > Date & Time
  • On Windows: Right-click the clock and choose Adjust date/time

Make sure it’s correct. Set it to update automatically if you can.

2. Restart Everything

Classic move, but it works more often than not.

  • Close iTunes
  • Restart your computer
  • Open iTunes again

Sometimes, iTunes just needs a little nap.

3. Update iTunes

If you’re using an older version of iTunes, it’s probably throwing a tantrum.

  • On Mac, run Software Update
  • On Windows, launch Apple Software Update

Download the latest version. New iTunes = fewer headaches.

4. Trust the Certificate (Advanced)

This is the “techie” fix — don’t worry, we’ll keep it simple.

If you’re on Mac:

  1. Open Keychain Access (use Spotlight Search 💡)
  2. Click System in the left sidebar
  3. Find any certificates related to itunes.apple.com
  4. Double-click one, expand Trust, and set it to Always Trust

Close Keychain. Open iTunes again. Smile. It might just be fixed.

5. Delete the Certificate and Reconnect

If trusting the certificate didn’t work, toss it out (nicely).

  • Go back to Keychain Access
  • Find the problematic certificate
  • Right-click and choose Delete

Reconnect your device. iTunes will create and verify a fresh one.

6. Disable Security Software (Temporarily!)

Sometimes, your antivirus wants to be the boss.

Temporarily disable it and try launching iTunes again. If it works, you might need to add iTunes to the “allowed” list.

Just don’t forget to turn your antivirus back on!

7. Use iTunes on Another Network

Wi-Fi acting weird? Try switching networks.

  • Connect to a different Wi-Fi
  • Or use a mobile hotspot

If the error vanishes, your current network might be blocking something iTunes needs.

Still Seeing the Error?

If none of the above work, don’t lose hope just yet:

  • Try reinstalling iTunes completely
  • Contact Apple Support

Sometimes, it’s a deeper issue only the Apple geniuses can solve.

You’re the Boss Now!

Now that you’ve got the tools (and the tricks), you can squash the “Can’t verify server identity” error like a bug. 🪲

Whether it was a time glitch, a certificate panic, or just a cranky old version of iTunes — you know how to fix it fast.

Next time that message pops up, just chuckle. You’ve got this.

High five! You just outsmarted iTunes. 🎉