Introduction

A 403 Forbidden Error can be a roadblock, preventing your target customers from exploring your website. These errors are frustrating and can significantly hamper user experience on a website. Here is everything you need to know about the 403 forbidden error:

What is the 403 Forbidden Error?

The 403 forbidden error is used to protect sensitive information when unauthorized access to file and folder permissions is triggered. The server understands the request for access but limits the additional access that can be provided. The web page shows an error message indicating restricted access and lack of authorization.

What Causes the 403 Forbidden Error?

The key reason behind such errors is the file and folder permissions settings, determining who can access the file or folder in question and the extent of access they will have. There are the main reasons behind a 403 forbidden error showing up are:
  1. The access settings have changed, and you can no longer access the resources in question.
  2. Incorrect or corrupt .htaccess file settings when the file was changed or due to malware.
  3. Not setting up proper permissions for the files.
  4. Issues with plugins used in WordPress that might have compatibility issues with other plugins. Incorrect setup can also be a reason.
  5. The cached and updated page link versions haven’t synced yet.
  6. The domain name is directed to an outdated or wrong IP address and hosting provider, preventing your access.
  7. No index page indicates the page hasn’t been named in ‘index.php’ or ‘index.html.’

How to Fix a 403 Forbidden Error?

Here are some ways you can fix the 403 forbidden error:

  • Reset the file and folder permissions:

An incorrect file or folder permission can trigger an HTTP 403 issue. Every file and folder carries specific permissions that determine the extent of access one has to it (reading, writing, or executing them).

  • Check if your pages are being indexed:

The page’s name should be &lsquoindexphp’ or index.html.’ In case it is not, you should consider uploading an index page to the public_html directory and setting up a redirect to your current homepage.

  • Scan for malware:

An infected website can continue adding codes to the .htaccess file randomly, which might jeopardize the file security and eventually show a forbidden error.

  • Clear cache:

Cache and cookies enable a website to load faster. However, the actual page’s link can differ from the cached version if the site has been updated. Additionally, cookies can also result in 403 forbidden errors.

Does a 403 status code affect SEO?

Yes, the 403 status code can affect SEO as it impacts the website's user experience by forbidding access to a web page. Additionally, search engines like Googlebot weigh redirects to gauge the health of a website.

Access denied: the plight of 403 redirects 

A 403 forbidden error occurs when the server is able to understand the request being made on the browser, but the web page cannot provide any additional access. While there are quick fixes to get past the 403 error, it is crucial to address the root cause to prevent the error from spoiling the user experience on your website. 403 forbidden error can dilute user experience on a website, dropping your rankings on SERP. Here’s everything to know and quick fixes. Read now!