Software⏱️ 3 min read📅 2026-06-11

How to Fix: netsh "Error: 87 The parameter is incorrect" when using hostnameport

Error 87 The parameter is incorrect when using hostnameport with netsh.

Quick Answer: The issue is likely due to the fact that hostnameport requires a fully qualified domain name (FQDN) instead of just a hostname.

The 'netsh http add sslcert hostnameport' command is used to create an SSL certificate for a specific hostname and port. However, when using this command, users may encounter the error 'Error: 87 The parameter is incorrect'. This error typically affects Windows systems running the latest versions of the netsh command, which may be due to changes in the way the command interprets the 'hostnameport' parameter.

This error can be frustrating for users who are familiar with using the 'ipport' parameter and have successfully created SSL certificates using this method. However, switching to the 'hostnameport' parameter can resolve compatibility issues between older and newer versions of Windows.

🔍 Why This Happens

  • The primary reason for this error is that the 'hostnameport' parameter requires a specific format, which may not be met by users who are unfamiliar with this syntax. The correct format for the 'hostnameport' parameter includes the hostname followed by the port number separated by a colon.
  • Another possible cause of this error could be the version of Windows being used. If the user is running an older version of Windows, it may not support the 'hostnameport' parameter, resulting in this error.

🚀 How to Resolve This Issue

Checking and Correcting the Format of the Hostname and Port

  1. Step 1: Verify that the hostname and port number are correctly formatted. In the example provided, the correct format would be 'localhost:9000'. Ensure that the hostname is in lowercase, as specified by Microsoft.
  2. Step 2: Check the version of Windows being used to ensure compatibility with the 'hostnameport' parameter. If using an older version, consider updating to a newer version for better compatibility and support.

Using the 'ipport' Parameter Instead

  1. Step 1: Try using the 'ipport' parameter instead of the 'hostnameport' parameter. This may resolve compatibility issues with older versions of Windows.
  2. Step 2: If using the 'ipport' parameter, ensure that the IP address is correctly formatted and that the port number is correct.

💡 Conclusion

To troubleshoot the 'netsh http add sslcert hostnameport' error, verify the format of the hostname and port number. If using an older version of Windows, consider updating to a newer version for better compatibility. Alternatively, try using the 'ipport' parameter instead. By following these steps, users can resolve this issue and successfully create SSL certificates.

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