The 403 Forbidden Error is something that we all have come across many times. This error stops you from accessing your requested web page. Luckily, there are different ways through which you can easily bypass or fix this error and access whatever you want.
I will explain to you the core methods which you can follow to fix 403 forbidden errors but before that let’s understand what is a 403 error and why it comes across in your browsing.
What is 403 Forbidden Error?
403 forbidden error is an HTTPS status code used by a web server to limit user access. It means that when you access any restricted website or page then its server shows you an error which ultimately declines your access to that particular website.
Why do you see a 403 Forbidden Error?
You must be thinking that why do you see a 403 forbidden error while requesting a website? Well, there are two possible reasons for that which I will try my best to make you understand.
The first reason is that the website server is restricted to allow access only for certain users, and if you’re not meeting particular criteria of the website then you will see a 403 error forbidden error. In short, when you’re not allowed by the website owner to access it then you will get the error.
Another potential reason for this error is that the website settings are made incorrectly in the .htaccess file and declining user access for no good.
Moreover, multiple websites use the same error differently. Meaning, your access may be denied through an error that looks slightly different but in reality, the purpose of all errors is the same i.e. to deny user access.
What are the different names of 403 Forbidden Error?
As I mentioned above that different websites use different errors to deny user access therefore, you can see various errors while requesting a web page. Forbidden errors may look like the following instances:
- HTTP 403
- Error 403
- Error 403 – Forbidden
- 403 Forbidden
- HTTP Error 403.14 – Forbidden
Note: It’s an error from the server-side, therefore, technically you’re bound to it. Your access is not allowed from the server however, if it’s a temporary error then you can fix it.
How to Fix 403 Forbidden Error?
Below, I am outlining a few steps which you can follow to bypass this error. Keep in mind that if it’s a permanent error then these steps might not work for you.
Check the URL
The first thing which you can do in this regard is to check your requested URL. Usually, a 403 error occurs due to the wrong URL therefore, it’s vital to take a look at the URL of your requested page.
Also, keep in mind that if you’re looking for a directory instead of a website or a page then you will see this error. It is because directories are mostly blocked due to security reasons. However, if you’re accessing a regular URL that ends with .com, Html or org then you can access it after re-typing your URL correctly.
Connect a VPN
There are chances that certain websites are blocked for particular locations. If this is the case then connecting to a VPN will be the best solution for you.
For example, if you’re living in the USA and requesting a website that is not allowed for USA users then you can connect to UK VPN to gain access to the website. Here, UK VPN means selecting the UK as your server location and re-launch the same web under a VPN connection.
Clean up the browser’s clutter
Sometimes a cluttered browser also results in declining web access. It suggested cleaning your browser’s cache and cookies.
Some websites’ URLs are already cached in your browser even after when the URLs are entirely changed or updated therefore, it is advised to clean up your browser cookies and cache to avoid errors or declined access.
Reload the web page
If you’re getting a temporary 403 error then a page refresh or reloading might help you. You can press F5 to refresh or reload your requested website/page.
Re-login
Some websites only allow you to access content when you log in properly. Sometimes due to technical issues the website shows a 403 error instead of the login error therefore, you can check and log in again to see if things are working for you.
Conclusion
These were the top tricks that you can implement to fix the 403 error. In case, if you’re still having issues while accessing any particular resource then you can contact its official email address to notify you of your concerns.
