2.3 GHz quad core Intel i7 Mac mini clean install fail

Hmm... I'm not sure why your 2012 i7 Mac mini can't access Internet Recovery Mode...?

see > If you can't start up from macOS Recovery - Apple Support

FWIW, if you have another Mac or access to one..?

You can create a bootable Catalina Installer on a Flash Drive to startup from and reinstall the macOS.

see > Create a bootable installer for macOS - Apple Support

commddot Said:

"2.3 GHz quad core Intel i7 Mac mini clean install fail: Safari can't establish a secure connection to the server although it's connected to the ethernet"

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Establishing a Secure Connection:

Being you are only in Recovery Mode, start with making sure the date and time are correct:

While in Recovery Mode:

1. Click: Tools menu
2. Open: Terminal
3. Type: date
4. Press: Return

commddot Said:

"2.3 GHz quad core Intel i7 Mac mini clean install fail: Thank you kindly! I opened Terminal and typed date and nothing changed. The date and time were correct prior to performing this task.”

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You are welcome. Excellent job troubleshooting!

Disable VPNs:

Are you using a VPN? If so, disable it. Secure Software just gets in the way on an Apple device, and this is a pure example of how and why.

Use a Private Network:

Are you connected to a public LAN (ie school or cafe? If so, use your own network. Too much network activity may be taking place, and that can get in the way of such heavy data activity.