HTTP 206 Partial Content vs 402 Payment Required
HTTP 206 (Partial Content) is a 2xx Success response, while 402 (Payment Required) is a 4xx Client Error 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, 402 means that reserved for future use. Originally intended for digital payment systems, some APIs use it to indicate a billing or subscription issue.
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
Reserved for future use. Originally intended for digital payment systems, some APIs use it to indicate a billing or subscription issue.
When You See It
On some APIs when a subscription has expired or payment is needed.
How to Fix
Check your billing status, update payment method, or upgrade your subscription.
Key Differences
206 is a 2xx Success response, while 402 is a 4xx Client Error 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 402: Reserved for future use. Originally intended for digital payment systems, some APIs use it to indicate a billing or subscription issue.
You encounter 206 when during video streaming, large file downloads, or when resuming interrupted downloads.
You encounter 402 when on some APIs when a subscription has expired or payment is needed.
When to Use Which
For 206 (Partial Content): No fix needed. This is normal behavior for range requests. For 402 (Payment Required): Check your billing status, update payment method, or upgrade your subscription.