WordPress seldom encounters the HTTP 501 status code. This issue, also known as the HTTP 501 Not Implemented error, is not as common as a 404 or 301 error in the WordPress environment. The HTTP 501 Not Implemented error is a server-based notification indicating the capability is not supported, hence the server is unable to process the request.
The 501 error may have long-term effects on your website’s SEO because Google interprets it as an offline problem. In this post, we will go through the 501 error, its causes, and the ways you can repair it.
Michael Balducci is a well-qualified and talented tech author who has been writing blogs related to WordPress or eCommerce for 7 years. He is hands-on experience in providing world-class support solutions to fix your common WordPress site-related errors. The 501 Error is common and can be fixed in a couple of seconds when you address this problem in front of him.
How to interpret an HTTP error?
When the server returns a 501 Not Implemented status code, it means that it does not have the functionality available to process the request. When the server cannot support the request method for any resource and does not recognize the request method, this is the proper response. The server, not the website, is therefore at fault in this situation.
A web browser sends a request to the web server to load a page. In reality, a request is issued at the time the URL is supplied to get certain content. Such a request is received and understood by the server. It sends the corresponding response back along with a header with the request’s status code.
When the hosting server goes offline or becomes inaccessible, the HTTP 501 error frequently arises, indicating that the server is unable to fulfill the request. Your website’s rating might get impacted if your server goes down drastically.
Why Do HTTP 501 Not Implemented Errors Occur?
Different circumstances can result in an HTTP error. The 501 not implemented error has the following most frequent reasons.
- The presence of malware or viruses on your computer could be the cause of your browser’s failure to connect to the web server.
- An overburdened server is another factor. You can receive a 501 error if your server is unable to manage the traffic.
- The server stack may be outdated, potentially as a result of your provider’s failure to update their stack, albeit this is a less likely source of the issue.
- Additionally, there are additional causes for this issue, such as other server faults or connectivity issues.
How Do You Correct an HTTP 501 Error?
It’s usually your web server that’s at fault when you receive a 501 not implemented error. To resolve this error, get in touch with your hosting company, but first, try the approaches described below.
1) Try refreshing the page
- You can try reloading the website every time you get the 501, which is the first thing to do.
- To refresh the page, press F5 and Ctrl + F5.
- Try loading your website using other browsers and incognito mode if that doesn’t work.
- Additionally, reload your website after trying to turn off or deactivate the cache mechanism and load it in its original, uncached state.
2) Delete Cache from Your Browser
- The second way to get around the 501 problems is to delete your browser’s cache and then verify your website again.
- Every browser offers a unique collection of options.
- Clear browsing data may be done in Google Chrome by going to settings, Privacy, and Security.
- Click the Clear data button, choose “Cookies and other site data” and “Cached images and files,” and then confirm your selections.
3) Run a virus check
- Malware or computer viruses could be the root of Error 501.
- Keep your antivirus software up to date and do a comprehensive check.
- Make sure the product has a quarantine feature. Also, guarantee that in the event of the virus identification, it will be neutralized appropriately.
4) Switch off the proxy settings
- Access your computer’s proxy settings by selecting Settings > Search > Proxy in Google Chrome.
- The Automatic and Manual proxy configuration will be opened and disabled on computers.
- Save the changes, then try to access your site again.
5) Speak With Your Host
- 501 errors nearly often indicate a problem with the web server, unlike certain other HTTP status codes.
- It typically isn’t brought on by unreliable plugins or cache problems.
- Contact your WordPress host right away if it doesn’t fix itself in a short while.
- You can also look at the status page for your WordPress host.
Wrapping Up
You discovered the reasons for the 501 error in this post, along with the recommended fixes. Since the 501 is a server-side error, it makes sense that you should pick a hosting company that offers you a better environment to prevent downtime that could harm your reputation and ranking. If no other solutions exist, it is essential to get in touch with the service provider. The technical support staff can examine the server’s setup and determine what went wrong with the website.
