HTTP 206 Partial Content vs 303 See Other
HTTP 206 (Partial Content) is a 2xx Success response, while 303 (See Other) is a 3xx Redirection response. 206 indicates that the server is delivering only part of the resource due to a Range header sent by the client. Used for resumable downloads and video streaming. In contrast, 303 means that the server is redirecting to a different resource using GET, typically after a POST operation (Post/Redirect/Get pattern).
Description
The server is delivering only part of the resource due to a Range header sent by the client. Used for resumable downloads and video streaming.
When You See It
During video streaming, large file downloads, or when resuming interrupted downloads.
How to Fix
No fix needed. This is normal behavior for range requests.
Description
The server is redirecting to a different resource using GET, typically after a POST operation (Post/Redirect/Get pattern).
When You See It
After form submissions to prevent resubmission on browser refresh.
How to Fix
Follow the Location header with a GET request. This is intentional — part of the PRG pattern.
Key Differences
206 is a 2xx Success response, while 303 is a 3xx Redirection response.
HTTP 206: The server is delivering only part of the resource due to a Range header sent by the client. Used for resumable downloads and video streaming.
HTTP 303: The server is redirecting to a different resource using GET, typically after a POST operation (Post/Redirect/Get pattern).
You encounter 206 when during video streaming, large file downloads, or when resuming interrupted downloads.
You encounter 303 when after form submissions to prevent resubmission on browser refresh.
When to Use Which
For 206 (Partial Content): No fix needed. This is normal behavior for range requests. For 303 (See Other): Follow the Location header with a GET request. This is intentional — part of the PRG pattern.