FTP 214 Help Message vs 504 Parameter Not Implemented
FTP 214 (Help Message) is a 2xx Positive Completion response, while 504 (Parameter Not Implemented) is a 5xx Permanent Negative response. 214 indicates that help message. The server provides information about its implementation status, including a list of recognized commands or help for a specific command. In contrast, 504 means that command not implemented for that parameter. The command is supported but not with the specific parameter value provided.
Description
Help message. The server provides information about its implementation status, including a list of recognized commands or help for a specific command.
When You See It
After issuing the HELP command. The server returns a list of supported commands or detailed usage for a specific command.
How to Fix
No fix needed — this is an informational response. Use it to discover which commands the server supports.
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
214 is a 2xx Positive Completion response, while 504 is a 5xx Permanent Negative response.
FTP 214: Help message. The server provides information about its implementation status, including a list of recognized commands or help for a specific command.
FTP 504: Command not implemented for that parameter. The command is supported but not with the specific parameter value provided.
You encounter 214 when after issuing the HELP command. The server returns a list of supported commands or detailed usage for a specific command.
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 214 (Help Message): No fix needed — this is an informational response. Use it to discover which commands the server supports. For 504 (Parameter Not Implemented): Use a supported parameter value. Check the server documentation or use FEAT to see which parameter options are available.