When something breaks on your WordPress site you’ll typically encounter what is called an HTTP status code. These are delivered to your browser in the HTTP header and to help you troubleshoot what might be wrong. Some status codes you’re probably familiar with include 404 “not found” errors or a 301 redirect for SEO purposes. Today we’re going to discuss a less common status code, and that is the 501 not implemented error. Follow the steps and recommendations below to resolve it.
What is HTTP 501 Error?
When you visit a web page, your browser makes a request to the webserver hosting the site. Usually, everything is working just fine and the page loads up. When the server can’t fulfill the request, you’ll receive an HTTP 501 error.
Below are just a couple of the many different variations you might see on the web:
- 501 Not Implemented
- Error 501
- HTTP 501
- HTTP Error 501 Not implemented
How to fix a 501 Not Implemented Error
A 501 not implemented error is almost always a problem with your web server. There are a few things you can do on your side to try and resolve it, but typically this is the type of error where you’ll need to reach out to your host to fix.
Perform a Deep-Level Virus Scan
While you should regularly perform a thorough virus scan if it’s been a while since your last scan this should be your first move. Confirm your antivirus software features the latest identification and quarantine technology. After the scan, try accessing your website. If a 501 HTTP Error Code continues, move onto the next step.
Clear Browser/Internet Cache
For some, the culprit of this persistent code is due to an old or corrupted file stored by your web browser cache. This can occur if you recently made significant infrastructure changes to the backend of your website, such as switching to a new webserver. Clear your web browser cache, close and reopen your browser. If this was the cause, you should have access to your site. If not, then it’s time to dig a little deeper.
Disable Proxy Settings
While one of the rarest causes of a 501 HTTP Error, if you use a proxy service the culprit could be your current settings. If you recently made the switch to a proxy service and then suddenly became bogged down by 501 errors, then this is likely the cause.
To determine if this is the reason for your unavailable website, navigate into your proxy settings, and disable the proxy server. Restart your computer and try again. If this doesn’t fix your problem, then it’s time to head straight to the source.
Contact Your Web Server Host
After exhausting all other measures with no success, it’s time to contact your web hosting provider. If the culprit of this error code was due to your own browser or network configuration settings, the aforementioned steps would offer relief. However, if the error persists, it’s due to an error within the actual web server.
Contact the technical support team for your hosting provider and inform them of your situation. Typically, after doing so the issue is resolved surprisingly fast.
