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“Could not connect to the server” macOS App Store Error Fix

macOS App Store error messages:

“Could not connect to server.”

“We could not complete your request.”

“There was an error in the App Store. Please try again later.”

If you are receiving the above error message when trying to update or install an application on a computer running macOS, the above video should show you the solution to get your App Store working properly again.

This issue first occurred for me when performing a clean wipe and install of High Sierra on a late 2013 Macbook Pro.

I first attempted the normal troubleshooting steps for this kind of issue, which I recommend you try as well if you have not yet.

Basic Apple App Store Troubleshooting Techniques:

  1. Restart computer
  2. Try different internet connections
  3. Log out and back in to the App Store
  4. Make sure the App Store is set to the proper country

If the above troubleshooting steps do not work, I suggest moving on to the solution that work for me.

Solution for the “Could not connect to the server.” Apple App Store error message:

  1. Open the “Keychain Access” application on your Mac computer (Utilities Folder).
  2. Click on the “System Roots” section in the left navigation area.
  3. Find any Apple related certificates that are highlighted in blue.
  4. Open the highlighted certificates.
  5. In the “Trust” section, set “Secure Sockets Layer (SSL)” to “Always Trust”.
  6. Close the certificate and enter the computer’s administrative password to apply the changes.
  7. Restart the computer.

These troubleshooting techniques are covered in more detail in the video if the text instructions are unclear.

I’m not sure what caused the certificate to become untrusted.  If anyone has any information on what may be causing this error, I would love to hear about it in the comments section.

Also, please report whether or not this solution worked for you and if you have any other tips for users experiencing similar issues.

If you found the video helpful, I would really appreciate a thumbs up on YouTube and don’t forget to subscribe to my YouTube channel.

Anson Alexander

I am an author, digital educator and content marketer. I record, edit, and publish content for AnsonAlex.com, provide technical and business services to clients and am an avid self-learner. I have also authored several digital marketing and business courses for LinkedIn Learning (previously Lynda.com).

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