FTP

FTP 213 File Status vs 504 Parameter Not Implemented

FTP 213 (File Status) is a 2xx Positive Completion response, while 504 (Parameter Not Implemented) is a 5xx Permanent Negative response. 213 indicates that file status reply. The server provides information about a specific file, typically its size or modification time. In contrast, 504 means that command not implemented for that parameter. The command is supported but not with the specific parameter value provided.

Description

File status reply. The server provides information about a specific file, typically its size or modification time.

When You See It

After issuing the SIZE or MDTM command, the server returns the file size in bytes or the last modification timestamp.

How to Fix

No fix needed — this is an informational response. Use the returned data to determine file size before download or to check timestamps for synchronization.

Description

Command not implemented for that parameter. The command is supported but not with the specific parameter value provided.

When You See It

When you use an unsupported transfer type or mode, such as TYPE E (EBCDIC) on a server that only supports ASCII and binary.

How to Fix

Use a supported parameter value. Check the server documentation or use FEAT to see which parameter options are available.

Key Differences

1.

213 is a 2xx Positive Completion response, while 504 is a 5xx Permanent Negative response.

2.

FTP 213: File status reply. The server provides information about a specific file, typically its size or modification time.

3.

FTP 504: Command not implemented for that parameter. The command is supported but not with the specific parameter value provided.

4.

You encounter 213 when after issuing the SIZE or MDTM command, the server returns the file size in bytes or the last modification timestamp.

5.

You encounter 504 when when you use an unsupported transfer type or mode, such as TYPE E (EBCDIC) on a server that only supports ASCII and binary.

When to Use Which

For 213 (File Status): No fix needed — this is an informational response. Use the returned data to determine file size before download or to check timestamps for synchronization. For 504 (Parameter Not Implemented): Use a supported parameter value. Check the server documentation or use FEAT to see which parameter options are available.

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