HTTP

HTTP 308 Permanent Redirect vs 501 Not Implemented

HTTP 308 (Permanent Redirect) is a 3xx Redirection response, while 501 (Not Implemented) is a 5xx Server Error response. 308 indicates that the resource has been permanently moved. Like 301, but guarantees the HTTP method will NOT be changed. In contrast, 501 means that the server does not support the functionality required to fulfill the request. The server either does not recognize the request method or lacks the ability to fulfill it.

Description

The resource has been permanently moved. Like 301, but guarantees the HTTP method will NOT be changed.

When You See It

For permanent URL changes where POST requests must remain POST.

How to Fix

Update all references to the new URL. The HTTP method is preserved.

Description

The server does not support the functionality required to fulfill the request. The server either does not recognize the request method or lacks the ability to fulfill it.

When You See It

When using an HTTP method (like PATCH) that the server doesn't support.

How to Fix

Use a different HTTP method that the server supports. Check server documentation.

Key Differences

1.

308 is a 3xx Redirection response, while 501 is a 5xx Server Error response.

2.

HTTP 308: The resource has been permanently moved. Like 301, but guarantees the HTTP method will NOT be changed.

3.

HTTP 501: The server does not support the functionality required to fulfill the request. The server either does not recognize the request method or lacks the ability to fulfill it.

4.

You encounter 308 when for permanent URL changes where POST requests must remain POST.

5.

You encounter 501 when when using an HTTP method (like PATCH) that the server doesn't support.

When to Use Which

For 308 (Permanent Redirect): Update all references to the new URL. The HTTP method is preserved. For 501 (Not Implemented): Use a different HTTP method that the server supports. Check server documentation.

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