Resolving the error:0480006C:PEM routines::no start line Issue in Node.js HTTPS Module

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The Problem: What Does the Error Mean?

You’re trying to run your Express server over HTTPS, but you encounter this error when starting the server:

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Analyzing the Code

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Expected Structure of Certificate Files

Your certificate files should look like this:

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Diagnosing the Issue

The main confusion arises because the error suggests reading the SSL files but still throws an error stating that it can't find the start line of the PEM file.

After a careful review, it's possible your paths for the private and public keys were reversed. Ensure that:

Solution: Correct the Path Configurations

Here’s how you can fix the issue:

Update Your .env File:
Make sure your .env file points to the correct file paths:

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Restart Your Server:

Final Thoughts

Errors related to SSL certificates can be tricky, but with careful debugging around the file paths and understanding the expected structure of the certificates, you can easily resolve this issue. Always double-check your configurations, especially when working with environments or automated scripts that might set these paths incorrectly.

If you encounter any more issues, feel free to reach out or share your experiences in the comments below.