Understanding HTTP Response Status Codes: A Comprehensive Guide
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Chapter 1: Introduction to HTTP Status Codes
HTTP response status codes are essential for understanding the communication between a client and a server. These codes offer insights into the outcome of a client’s request, helping developers troubleshoot and optimize their applications.
Section 1.1: Informational Responses (1xx)
1xx status codes indicate that the server has received the request and is continuing the process.
- 100 Continue: When a client uploads a large file, it may first receive a "100 Continue" to signal that it can proceed with sending the complete file.
- 101 Switching Protocols: This code is sent when a client requests to switch from HTTP/1.1 to the WebSocket protocol.
- 102 Processing: This response indicates that the server is currently processing the client’s request.
Section 1.2: Successful Responses (2xx)
2xx status codes confirm that the client's request was successfully received and processed.
- 200 OK: The server successfully retrieves the requested user information.
- 201 Created: After a client’s POST request to create a new user account, the server confirms with "201 Created."
- 204 No Content: Following a DELETE request, the server acknowledges the removal with a "204 No Content."
Chapter 2: Redirection Responses (3xx)
3xx status codes inform the client that further action is necessary to complete the request.
The first video, "Learn HTTP Status Codes In 10 Minutes," provides a concise overview of various HTTP status codes, making it easier to understand their meanings and applications.
Section 2.1: Common Redirection Codes
- 301 Moved Permanently: This code is used when a website changes its domain name, directing the client to the new URL.
- 302 Found: When a web application is under maintenance, users are redirected to a temporary maintenance page.
- 304 Not Modified: If a client requests a resource that hasn't been changed since their last request, the server responds with "304 Not Modified."
Chapter 3: Client Error Responses (4xx)
4xx status codes indicate that there was an error with the client's request.
The second video, "HTTP Explained: The HTTP Request Status Code Guide (Complete)," delves into the intricacies of HTTP status codes, offering a comprehensive understanding.
Section 3.1: Common Client Errors
- 400 Bad Request: Triggered when a client sends a POST request missing required parameters.
- 401 Unauthorized: This code appears when a client tries to access a protected resource without proper authentication.
- 403 Forbidden: If a user attempts to access restricted content without the necessary permissions, the server will respond with "403 Forbidden."
- 404 Not Found: This error indicates that the requested URL does not exist on the server.
Chapter 4: Server Error Responses (5xx)
5xx status codes reveal that an error occurred on the server side while processing the request.
Section 4.1: Common Server Errors
- 500 Internal Server Error: This response occurs when an unhandled exception arises during a request.
- 502 Bad Gateway: When a server acting as a gateway receives an unexpected response from an upstream server, it results in this error.
- 503 Service Unavailable: A sudden surge in traffic may overwhelm the server, leading to this status.
- 504 Gateway Timeout: This error signifies that a gateway server failed to receive a timely response from an upstream server.
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