How to Fix the PR_END_OF_FILE_ERROR

The PR_END_OF_FILE_ERROR is a frustrating issue that prevents Firefox users from establishing a secure website connection. Unlike common connection errors, this one is specific to Firefox and is usually related to misconfigured security settings, VPN interference, or corrupted browser profiles.

If you’re encountering this error, don’t worry. This guide will explain what causes it, how to fix it, and how to prevent it from happening again.

---

What is the PR_END_OF_FILE_ERROR?

The error code: PR_END_OF_FILE_ERROR occurs when Firefox fails to establish a secure connection because it has exhausted all available encryption methods. In simpler terms, Firefox tries different security protocols to connect to a website, but none work, so the connection fails.

This error is not related to the website you’re visiting. Instead, it is a browser-side issue caused by corrupt settings, faulty security software, or interference from proxies or VPNs.

Since this is a Firefox-exclusive problem, you won’t see it on Chrome, Edge, or Safari. If you’re experiencing it, something within Firefox (or an external tool affecting it) is likely the cause. Now, let’s explore the potential culprits in more detail.

---

What Causes the PR_END_OF_FILE_ERROR?

Several factors can trigger the end-of-file error, but the most common causes include:

1. Corrupt Firefox Profile: Your Firefox profile stores settings, bookmarks, and security preferences. If this profile becomes corrupted—due to updates, add-ons, or file damage—Firefox may fail to establish secure connections.
2. Incorrect Cipher Settings: Firefox uses encryption ciphers to create secure connections. If these ciphers are misconfigured or manually altered, Firefox won’t be able to find a valid encryption method, leading to the error.
3. VPN or Proxy Interference: Some VPNs and proxies modify network settings to reroute traffic through secure tunnels. If these configurations interfere with Firefox’s security protocols, it can trigger the PR_END_OF_FILE_ERROR.
4. Third-Party Security Software: Firewalls and antivirus programs scan and modify encrypted connections (SSL/TLS traffic). If security software blocks or alters Firefox’s encryption process, the connection could fail.
5. Corrupt SSL Cache or Certificates: Firefox stores SSL certificates and encryption settings to speed up secure connections. If these become outdated or corrupted, they can cause connection errors.

---

How To Fix the PR_END_OF_FILE_ERROR?

Now that we understand the causes, let’s fix the PR_END_OF_FILE_ERROR in Firefox. Try our different solutions and see what works for you.

1. Disable VPN or Proxy Connections

A misconfigured VPN or proxy can interfere with secure connections. Disabling them can resolve the issue. Here’s how to disable a VPN:

1. Disconnect from the VPN using its app or settings. You can also close it from the taskbar.
2. Restart Firefox and try loading a website.

And here’s how to disable a proxy in Firefox.

1. Go to Settings > General.
   
   
   
   
2. Scroll to Network Settings and click Settings.
   
   
   
   
3. Select No Proxy and click OK.
   
   
   
   
4. Restart Firefox and check if the issue is resolved.

---

2. Disable Third-Party Security Software (Firewall; Antivirus)

Some antivirus programs and firewalls interfere with SSL/TLS connections, causing Firefox to fail secure handshakes. To check if security software is the problem, you should temporarily disable your antivirus/firewall.

On Windows Security

1. Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Security > Firewall & Network Protection.
   
   
   
   
2. Click Turn off the firewall for all network types.

On a third-party antivirus

1. Open its settings and look for options like: “HTTPS scanning”, “SSL/TLS protection,” or “Encrypted traffic inspection.”
2. Disable these options and restart Firefox.
3. Try loading a website in Firefox. If the error disappears, the security software was interfering.

Permanent Fix: Either keep SSL/TLS scanning disabled OR switch to a different security program that doesn’t interfere with encrypted connections. If you trust a website, manually add it to your antivirus/firewall’s exception list.

---

3. Reset Firefox’s SSL & TLS Settings

If SSL/TLS settings have been manually altered or corrupted, resetting them can restore normal connections.

1. Open Firefox and type about:config in the address bar.
2. Click “Accept the Risk and Continue.”
   
   
   
   
3. Search for the following entries: security.tls.version.min and security.tls.version.max
4. Right-click each and select Reset (or manually set them to 2 and 3, respectively).
   
   
   
   
5. Restart Firefox and check if the error is resolved.

---

4. Clear SSL Cache and Certificates

If Firefox has stored outdated SSL certificates, clearing them may fix the issue. Steps to clear SSL cache:

1. Open Firefox and go to Settings > Privacy & Security.
2. Scroll to Certificates and click View Certificates.
   
   
   
   
3. Select the Authorities tab and remove any outdated or suspicious certificates.
   
   
   
   
4. Restart Firefox and check if the error is resolved.

---

5. Create a New Firefox Profile (Backup Bookmarks First!)

If nothing works, your Firefox profile may be corrupted. Creating a new profile often fixes the issue. Before doing so, back up your bookmarks!

How to export bookmarks from Firefox:

1. Open Firefox and click the Bookmarks icon (or press Ctrl + Shift + O).
2. Click Import and Backup > Export Bookmarks to HTML.
3. Save the file somewhere safe (like your Desktop).
   
   
   
   

How to create a new Firefox profile:

1. Type about:profiles in the Firefox address bar.
2. Click “Create a New Profile” and follow the setup wizard.
   
   
   
   
3. Once created, click “Set as Default Profile”.
4. Restart Firefox and check if the issue is fixed.

How to restore bookmarks in your new profile:

1. Open Firefox and go to Bookmarks > Import and Backup > Import Bookmarks from HTML.
2. Select the file you saved earlier and import it.
3. Now, you have a fresh Firefox profile without losing your bookmarks!

---

How To Avoid the PR_END_OF_FILE_ERROR?

To prevent this error from occurring again, follow these best practices:

• Avoid Modifying Firefox’s Encryption Settings. Unless necessary, avoid changing cipher settings, SSL/TLS configurations, or security protocols within Firefox. Misconfigured encryption settings can lead to connection failures.
• Keep Firefox Updated. Firefox updates include security patches and bug fixes. Running an outdated version can cause encryption errors.
• Use a Reliable VPN or Proxy. If you need a VPN or proxy, ensure it doesn’t interfere with SSL/TLS protocols. Choose a reputable provider that handles encryption properly.
• Exclude Firefox from Security Software Scanning. Some antivirus programs aggressively scan encrypted connections. To prevent issues, add Firefox to your antivirus/firewall exclusions list and disable HTTPS scanning in security software settings.
•  Regularly Clear SSL Certificates and Cache. Corrupt SSL certificates can cause connection errors. Periodically clear them through Firefox settings to avoid issues.

---

PR_END_OF_FILE_ERROR Fixed. Now, Keep Your SSL Strong

The PR_END_OF_FILE_ERROR in Firefox results from misconfigurations, corrupt profiles, or interference from security software. Follow the proper fixes, adjust settings, disable conflicting software, and create a fresh profile to restore secure browsing.

Most importantly, keep Firefox updated, use trusted security software, and ensure your SSL certificates are correctly configured. A reliable SSL isn’t just about encryption. It’s the foundation of a seamless, secure browsing experience. For top-tier SSL certificates, check out SSL Dragon. It offers cheap SSL solutions for every need and budget.