HTTP Status Codes
How to look up an HTTP status code
- Type the code, such as 404, or a word, such as redirect or login, into the search box.
- Or pick a class: 1xx and 2xx mean things are going well, 3xx means the page is somewhere else, 4xx means a problem with the request and 5xx a problem on the server.
- Each code shows its official name, as servers send it, and what it means in plain words. A link ending in #404 opens straight on that code.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between 301 and 302?
301 says a page has moved for good, so search engines move its ranking to the new address. 302 says the move is temporary, so the old address keeps its place. Use 301 when you change a page's address for good.
Is a 404 error bad for my site?
Not in itself: a 404 is the right answer for a page that does not exist, and search engines expect some. It only hurts when links people follow, or pages that used to rank, lead to one; redirect those with a 301 to the closest page.
What should I do about a 500 or 503 error?
As a visitor, wait a few minutes and reload; the problem is on the server. As the site owner, check the server's error log: a 500 usually means a bug or a bad setting, a 503 that the server is overloaded or in maintenance.