If you use the internet frequently, you can run into issues loading websites and get different error status numbers.
One of the most frequent error codes is the 401 Error, often referred to as the 401 Unauthorized Error. This error means that there was a problem authenticating the request made to the website or web application. Thankfully, this problem can usually be fixed simply.
You will discover more about the 401 error code in this lesson, along with five different ways to diagnose it and potential reasons.
Error Code: HTTP 401 Unauthorized Error
Error Type: Typically, a client-side error
Error Variations:
- HTTP Error 401 Unauthorized
- 401 Unauthorized Error
- Error 401 Unauthorized
- Access Denied
- 401 Authorization Required
This article will explain 401 error messages and discuss their causes. Then, we’ll guide you through five different ways to resolve them.
So, let’s get going!
What is HTTP 401 Unauthorized Error?
The HTTP 401 Unauthorized error indicates that the server’s request lacks valid authentication credentials for the targeted resource, hence failing to verify it. When you attempt to access a URL, your browser sends a request that isn’t authenticated in this case.
This error commonly arises from client-side issues, including:
1. Inputting the wrong URL.
2. Providing incorrect username or password.
3. Outdated browser cache and cookies.
For instance, encountering the 401 Error might happen when trying to access restricted resources, such as a password-protected web page, without logging in or providing the correct authentication details first.
While client-side issues are typically the primary culprits, the error can occasionally stem from server-side factors. The server might intentionally block client access to the requested resource, or its authentication process may be flawed.
When faced with the 401 Error, the browser displays an error code or message instead of directing you to the desired web page. You might encounter messages such as:
- HTTP Error 401
- 401 Authorization Required
- 401 Unauthorized Error
- Access Denied
Also read: How to Fix WordPress 404 Error “Page Not Found” in 7 Easy Steps
What Causes HTTP 401 Unauthorized Error?
The 401 error typically arises due to issues related to authentication credentials when accessing restricted resources, such as password-protected pages on a website.
While it’s commonly associated with client-side problems, the actual cause might extend beyond the browser itself.
Let’s delve into some common causes:
- Outdated Browser Cache and Cookies:
An outdated browser cache or cookies can lead to a 401 error by preventing successful authentication. If your browser fails to provide valid authentication credentials or any credentials at all, the server will reject the request.
- Plugin Incompatibility:
Sometimes, a 401 error can be triggered by plugin incompatibility or errors.
For instance, a firewall or security plugin might incorrectly interpret a login attempt as malicious activity, resulting in a 401 error to safeguard the page.
- Incorrect URL or Outdated Link:
Minor mistakes like incorrectly-typed URLs or outdated links can also cause the 401 error. These issues can occur when attempting to access a resource using an inaccurate URL or following a link that means to a page that no longer exists or has been moved.
Also read: How to Fix 413 Request Entity Too Large Error in WordPress
Ways to Fix HTTP 401 Unauthorized Error
1. Check the URL Is Correct
The user may get the 401 error code if they typed the incorrect URL into the address bar of their browser. Verify the URL you entered in before attempting the other techniques.
Example: Correct one https://nestify.io/features – wrong one https://nestify.io/feotures
Check to make sure you noticed all the special letters and numbers. Make sure the link you are following is correct if it came from another website or online application.
The 401 error may occasionally occur when the hyperlink needs to be updated or fixed.
Try using the website’s homepage to manually navigate to the affected page in order to gain access to the restricted content. This will yield the right URL. Alternatively, you might try searching Google for the page.
2. Clear Your Browser’s Cache
Your browser’s cache is intended to enhance your online experience by lowering page load times. Unfortunately, it can also result in unwelcome disruptions.
As previously stated, one of the most common error of the 401 error is obsolete or erroneous cache data or cookies.
If you don’t see any problems with the page’s URL, the next step is to delete your browser’s cache. This will remove any erroneous information saved locally in your browser that may be interfering with the login procedure.
Similarly, your browser’s cookies may store authentication data that only has to be renewed.
If you’re using Google Chrome, click the menu symbol in the top-right corner of the browser and then select Settings. In the Privacy and Security menu, choose Clear browsing data.
Access the cookie page of your browser using one of the following shortcuts:
- Chrome on Windows: Ctrl + Shift + Delete
- Chrome on Mac: Command + Shift + Delete
- Firefox on Windows: Ctrl + Shift + Delete
- Firefox on Mac: Command + Shift + Delete
- Safari: Go to Settings > Safari > Clear History and Website Data
- Microsoft Edge: Command + Shift + Delete
3. Clean Your DNS
Flushing your Domain Name Server (DNS) is another option for resolving the 401 error. While this is a less common problem, it might be the culprit, so it’s worth a shot if the previous two options fail.
To accomplish this with Windows, press the Start button and enter “cmd” into the search option. When you press Enter, the Command Prompt window opens.
Copy and paste the “ipconfig /flushdns” command, then press Enter again.
On a Mac, open Finder > Applications > Utilities > Terminal.
Enter the command: “sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder” and click Enter.
Then, try refreshing the page you were trying to access to check whether the 401 error has been resolved.
4. Deactivate Your WordPress Plugins
The issue causing your 401 error might not solely stem from your browser. If you’re encountering difficulties accessing your WordPress site, it’s plausible that one or more plugins could be at fault.
Certain plugins, particularly security-focused ones, may trigger a 401 error if they detect suspicious login activity indicative of a potential attack. Others might encounter compatibility issues. Therefore, it’s advisable to deactivate all your WordPress plugins temporarily to see if that fixes the issue.
Using your WordPress dashboard, go to Plugins > Installed Plugins and deactivate all of your plugins at the same time.
To select all plugins, check the box at the top, then pick Deactivate from the Bulk Actions drop-down menu, and click Apply.
After deactivation, attempt to reload the page that previously displayed the 401 error to determine if this action has resolved the issue. If successful, you can then reactivate each plugin individually to identify the culprit. Subsequently, you may choose to remove the problematic plugin, substitute it with an alternative, or seek assistance from its developer.
Verify the Authentication Credentials
When you attempt to access a password-protected website or other restricted resource using improper authentication credentials, you may see the 401 Unauthorized Error code. You will thus be unable to access the page.
Verify again that you are logged in using a legitimate login name and password. Try altering the password if you are certain that you have entered the information accurately.
Try changing your WordPress password if you’re experiencing problems getting onto a site that requires a password.
Wrapping Up
Understanding and resolving the 401 (Unauthorized) status code error is essential for maintaining seamless access to web resources. By following the methods outlined in this guide, users can effectively diagnose and address common causes of the 401 error.
Whether it involves verifying the URL, clearing browser cache and cookies, flushing DNS, or deactivating WordPress plugins, these steps enable users to troubleshoot and resolve authentication-related issues promptly.
By taking proactive measures and leveraging troubleshooting techniques, users can minimize downtime and ensure a smoother browsing experience.
FAQs on 401 Unauthorized Error
What is the significance of the 401 (Unauthorized) status code error?
The 401 error indicates that the server requires authentication for accessing the requested resource, but the client failed to provide valid credentials or did not provide any at all.
What are the common scenarios that trigger a 401 error?
Common causes include entering incorrect login credentials, attempting to access restricted areas without proper authorization, or encountering authentication issues due to server misconfigurations.
How do I recognize if I’m encountering a 401 error?
When a 401 error occurs, your browser typically displays a message such as “401 Unauthorized,” indicating that the requested resource requires authentication.
What actions should I take to troubleshoot and resolve a 401 error?
Begin by double-checking your login credentials to ensure they are right. If the problem persists, try deleting your browser’s cache and cookies, flushing your DNS cache, or disabling any incompatible plugins or extensions.
Are there any server-side factors that could contribute to a 401 error?
Yes, server misconfigurations, authentication failures, or access control restrictions set up by the server can also lead to a 401 error. It’s essential to investigate both client-side and server-side factors when diagnosing and resolving the issue.
