[PLUG] Internet access certificate issues

[Denis Heidtmann]

System:  Comcast cable into a wireless modem >- Ethernet to wireless router
(airRouter) >-  Ethernet to desktop computer.  Also have a laptop wireless
connection to the airRouter (no pw protection)

Yesterday at about 9:30 AM I was unable to reach a site (forgot which
one).  The message said that the credentials were only valid for another
site.  That site other was a web site service outfit; I was able to reach
it.  I got a similar message trying to reach Google and Mozilla, but no
reference to another site.  I left to do other things.  Computer in suspend.

My wife ran into similar issues mid afternoon.  Unable to get to any sites,
in particular Google.  She gave up.  I arrived at 5 pm or so.  Same issue.
Messages were that the certificates were not valid.  I tried various sites;
always the same. Tried two other browsers.  One of those permitted me to go
to the site anyway, ignoring the warning.  That resulted in 400 error.

I phoned Comcast.  Got a tech that seemed very interested and
knowledgeable. (He runs Linux at home.)  After much reseting, power
cycling, etc. we tried removing the airRouter from the picture and the
problem resolved.  I am operating now without the airRouter.  It is sitting
here next to my elbow.  I should mention that once during this effort I did
get a  different message: Server not found.  This was brief.

My son suggested that the router was attacked.  Other explanations could be
poor wired connections:  one end of one of the Ethernet cables is missing
the mechanical lock. Maybe it got noisy.  Also, it could be the power
supply to the router is failing.  I have not checked it yet.

My son want to examine the router.  How about you, Russell?

Comments?