How to Solve the 403 Forbidden Error?

403 Forbidden errors harm your site user experience and bounce rates. So, how can we fix a 403 Forbidden error?

Don't worry! This post will examine several remedies to 403 Forbidden errors.

Let’s get started!

What is 403 Forbidden Error?

The 403 Forbidden error is a common HTTP status code. It shows when you try to access a webpage from a website. Moreover, it indicates that the  server   understands the client's request but declines to execute. 

This error can occur for a variety of reasons, such as:

1. Mismatched file permissions

2. Server configuration issues

3. Access-restricting directives in the.htaccess file

Resolving this mistake guarantees that users can access the appropriate webpage or resource without experiencing any impediments.

403 Forbidden Error: Reasons

The two most likely causes of the 403 Forbidden Error are:

• Corrupt .htaccess file

• Incorrect file permissions

It's also conceivable that a problem with a plugin on your website causes the error. 

Other probable sources of a 403 prohibited error are:

• Erroneous IP address: A domain name points to an incorrect or out-of-date IP address that hosts a website, preventing you from getting access.
  
  

• Issues with WordPress plugins: Incompatible or improperly configured WordPress plugins.
  
  

• New link to page: A site owner updates a page's link, which differs from the cached version
  
  

• Malware: infestations can cause a.htaccess file to be corrupted indefinitely. Therefore, you must remove the infection before attempting to restore the file.
  
  

• No index pages: Your site's homepage is not called 'index.php' or 'index.html.'

Method 1: Check File and Directory Permissions

The most common reasons for the 403 Forbidden error are improper file. Make sure your website's files and folders have the proper rights configured. Here's a quick guide for checking and updating permissions:

You can adjust permissions using the chmod command in your server's terminal or through your FTP client's file permissions settings.

Method 2: Review the .htaccess File

The .htaccess file is in your website's root directory. It may contain directives that limit access to specified resources. If these directives are incorrect, they might result in a 403 Forbidden error. Here's how to debug the. htaccess file.

• Access your website's files via FTP or a file manager.

• Locate the.htaccess file in the root directory.

• To temporarily turn off the file, rename it something like.htaccess_old.

• Try viewing your website again to check if the issue remains.

Suppose the error is fixed after renaming the. htaccess file, you must find and correct any incorrect directives.

Method 3: Verify Cloud or Server Configuration

Server misconfigurations could cause the 403 Forbidden error. Here's how you can adjust your server configuration:

1. Access your server's control panel or terminal.

2. Check the server logs for any relevant error messages.

3. Your hosting provider's firewall or security settings are not blocking legitimate requests to your website.

Method 4: Clear Browser Cache and Cookies

Sometimes, the 403 Forbidden error may be caused by cached browser data or corrupt cookies. To rule out this possibility, try clearing your browser's cache and cookies:

• Open your web browser's settings.
  
  

• Navigate to the section for clearing browsing data.
  
  

• Select the options to clear cache and cookies.
  
  

• Restart your browser and try reaccessing the website.

Method 5: Contact Hosting Support

403 Forbidden error still not fixed? You may need to contact your hosting provider's support team. Share your detailed information about the problem. They can determine the source of the problem. Further, provide a solution appropriate for your hosting environment.

Final Words

The 403 Forbidden error will be solved if the right strategy is applied. You can tackle this problem and ensure the site is always up and running. For more information-contact, our cloud hosting experts. They will guide you in the right way and also provide information you wish to know.