Which status code indicates that access to the requested URL is forbidden?

Which status code indicates that access to the requested URL is forbidden?

• A. A status code of 200
• B. A status code of 301
• C. A status code of 403
• D. A status code of 404

Answer: (C)

The status code that indicates access to the requested URL is forbidden is 403. A 403 status code signifies that the server understands the request but refuses to authorize it. This usually occurs due to insufficient permissions or when a user is not allowed to access the resource, regardless of authentication. This is an important distinction, as users may still be authenticated but lacking the necessary rights. In contrast, the other status codes have different meanings. A status code of 200 indicates a successful request where the server successfully processes the request and returns the requested content. A status code of 301 represents a permanent redirect, telling the client that the requested resource has been moved to a new location. Lastly, a status code of 404 signifies that the server cannot find the requested resource, meaning it does not exist rather than being accessible but forbidden. Understanding the unique meaning of each status code is crucial for diagnosing web issues effectively.

The status code that indicates access to the requested URL is forbidden is 403. A 403 status code signifies that the server understands the request but refuses to authorize it. This usually occurs due to insufficient permissions or when a user is not allowed to access the resource, regardless of authentication. This is an important distinction, as users may still be authenticated but lacking the necessary rights.

In contrast, the other status codes have different meanings. A status code of 200 indicates a successful request where the server successfully processes the request and returns the requested content. A status code of 301 represents a permanent redirect, telling the client that the requested resource has been moved to a new location. Lastly, a status code of 404 signifies that the server cannot find the requested resource, meaning it does not exist rather than being accessible but forbidden. Understanding the unique meaning of each status code is crucial for diagnosing web issues effectively.