Definition
Status Codes are standardized numerical responses sent by a server to a client—such as a web browser or search engine crawler—indicating the outcome of a request to access a resource on a website. These codes communicate whether a request was successful, redirected, or encountered an error.
What is it?
Status Codes form part of the HTTP protocol and are divided into several ranges. For instance, 2xx codes denote successful requests (e.g., 200 OK), 3xx codes indicate redirection (e.g., 301 or 302), 4xx codes point to client errors (e.g., 404 Not Found), and 5xx codes signal server errors (e.g., 500 Internal Server Error). Each code provides specific details about the status of a webpage or file, helping both browsers and search engine crawlers understand how to handle the requested resource. This structured communication is essential for effective navigation and proper indexing of websites.
How is it used?
Web servers return these codes with each client request to inform the user or crawler about the action taken or needed. SEO professionals monitor status codes to ensure that pages load as expected, and to quickly identify issues such as broken links (4xx errors) or server problems (5xx errors). Proper use of status codes—such as implementing 301 redirects for permanently moved content—helps preserve link equity and maintain a seamless user experience. Consistent monitoring and management of status codes are key to ensuring optimal website performance and search engine visibility.
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