HTTP status reference
This reference explains what an HTTP status code means. Every web response carries a three-digit code, and this tool gives its standard name, its class and a short plain explanation. Developers, testers and site owners use it when reading logs, browser tools or API errors.
- Runs in your browser
- Free, no account needed
- Copy or download the result
Result
Example
429
429 Too Many Requests Class: Client error The client has exceeded a request rate limit. Check the actual response headers and server documentation for retry, caching and application behavior.
How to use the http status reference
- Type one three-digit code, such as 429, into the HTTP status code, 100 to 599 box.
- Press Run. There are no options.
- Read the name, class and description in the result.
- Copy result or Download it for your notes.
How it works
Codes are grouped by first digit: 1xx informational, 2xx successful, 3xx redirection, 4xx client error and 5xx server error.
Names follow current HTTP standards, for example 413 Content Too Large and 422 Unprocessable Content.
418 is listed as reserved and unused, with a note that it was historically known as I'm a teapot.
A code in range without a standard entry, such as 299, still shows its class and a note that it may be unassigned or specific to one application.
One code per lookup. Anything that is not a three-digit number from 100 to 599 is rejected.
Everything runs in your browser. Your input is not uploaded or stored.
Questions and answers
What is the difference between 401 and 403?
401 Unauthorized means the request needs valid authentication credentials. 403 Forbidden means the server understood the request and refuses to carry it out.
What does 429 Too Many Requests mean?
The client sent too many requests and hit a rate limit. Check the response headers, such as Retry-After, to see when to try again.
What is the difference between 301 and 308?
Both are permanent redirects. A 308 tells the client to keep the same request method, such as POST, while a 301 does not promise that.
Does this check a live website?
No. It is a lookup table in your browser. It sends no request, so it cannot tell you what status a site returns.