How to fix "No Client Certificate presented" error when trying to log into military site with personal computer using a common access card

Hi Akil Bennett,

Thanks for reaching out to Microsoft Q&A!

I’m sorry to hear you’re having trouble accessing a site with a CAC reader. The error often means that Edge is not receiving or offering a valid CAC client certificate from Windows, even though the reader is detected. Here’s what you should do next:

1 - Confirm Windows 11 can see your CAC certificates

• Insert your CAC into the reader
• Press Win + R > type inetcpl.cpl > press Enter
• Go to Content > Certificates > check the Personal tab
• There should be multiple certificates with your credentials there.
• If nothing appears, the problem is certificate handling, not Edge itself.

2 - Remove old or incorrect CAC certificates

• Still in the Personal tab, remove all or at least the below:
  • Expired certificates
  • Certificates from old CACs
  • Certificates that are not yours
• Close all Edge windows completely:
  • Open Settings > Apps > Installed apps > Microsoft Edge
  • Click three-dot > Modify > scroll down and click Terminate
• Remove the CAC and reader > Reconnect and reinsert the CAC.
• Reopen Edge and try the site again.

3 - Reinstall DoD Root & Intermediate certificates

• Download the DoD Root and Intermediate certificates from the official DoD PKI site.
• Install all required certificates > Restart Windows and retry the site in Edge.

Please also note that some military websites do not fully support personal devices, even when CAC is working correctly. If the same CAC works on a government-managed computer, this confirms the site restriction rather than a Windows or Edge defect.

If all steps above fail, the next step is the military site’s help desk, as Windows and Edge are already functioning correctly at that point.

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