unable to access ‘https://dev.azure.com/xxx’: OpenSSL SSL_connect: Connection was reset in connection to dev.azure.com:443

Error Overview

The error message “unable to access 'https://dev.azure.com/xxx': OpenSSL SSL_connect: Connection was reset in connection to dev.azure.com:443” indicates that the connection to Azure DevOps was unexpectedly terminated. This issue can arise due to various reasons, including network restrictions, misconfigured settings, or conflicts with other software. Understanding the root causes of this error is vital for effective resolution.

Common Causes

Several factors can contribute to the occurrence of this error:

1. Network Configuration: Incorrect proxy settings or firewall restrictions may block access to the Azure DevOps URL.
2. VPN Issues: Using a VPN that is improperly configured or not connected can lead to connection resets.
3. SSL/TLS Protocols: An outdated OpenSSL library or unsupported TLS version can cause handshake failures.
4. Local Environment Configuration: Misconfigured Git settings, such as remote repository URLs, may lead to connection issues.
5. Server Issues: Temporary issues with the Azure DevOps service can also result in connection resets.

Solution Methods

Method 1: Unsetting Proxy Configuration

One common solution to resolve the error is to unset any proxy configuration that might be affecting the connection.

1. Open your terminal or command prompt.
2. Execute the following command:
   bash
git config --global --unset-all remote.origin.proxy
3. Check if the error persists when trying to access the URL again.

This method has proven effective for many users who faced similar issues.

Method 2: Using GitHub Desktop

In situations where you cannot connect using command-line tools, consider using a graphical interface like GitHub Desktop. This app can circumvent some connection issues.

1. Download and install GitHub Desktop from the official website.
2. Open GitHub Desktop and log in with your credentials.
3. Try to push or pull your changes from your repository.

Using GitHub Desktop can often simplify the connection process and may resolve the “unable to access” error.

Method 3: Switching to SSH

If HTTPS connections continue to fail, switching to SSH may help. This method involves configuring Git to use SSH instead of HTTPS.

1. Open your terminal or command prompt.
2. Execute the following commands to configure SSH:
   bash
git config --global url."git@github.com:".insteadOf "https://github.com/"
3. Test the SSH connection:
   bash
ssh -T git@github.com
4. Confirm that SSH is correctly set up and try accessing the Azure DevOps URL again.

This method ensures a more stable connection, especially in restrictive network environments.

Method 4: Ensuring Up-to-Date Software

Make sure you are using the latest versions of Git and OpenSSL. An outdated version may cause compatibility issues.

1. Check your Git version:
   bash
git --version
2. If necessary, update Git to the latest version available for your operating system.
3. Verify your OpenSSL version:
   bash
openssl version
4. Update OpenSSL as needed.

Keeping your software up-to-date can help prevent various errors, including the “unable to access” error.

Prevention Tips

To avoid encountering the “unable to access 'https://dev.azure.com/xxx': OpenSSL SSL_connect: Connection was reset in connection to dev.azure.com:443” error in the future, consider the following best practices:

• Regularly update Git, OpenSSL, and any other relevant software.
• Maintain proper network configurations and ensure that firewall and proxy settings allow access to Azure DevOps.
• Use SSH for secure connections instead of HTTPS when possible.
• Monitor the status of Azure DevOps services for any outages or issues that may affect connectivity.

Summary

The error “unable to access 'https://dev.azure.com/xxx': OpenSSL SSL_connect: Connection was reset in connection to dev.azure.com:443” can be resolved through various methods, including unsetting proxy configurations, using alternative tools like GitHub Desktop, switching to SSH, and ensuring your software is up-to-date. By understanding the common causes and implementing preventive measures, you can mitigate the risk of encountering this error in the future. Always ensure your network settings are correctly configured and monitor the status of the services you are trying to connect to.