Common Errors & Solutions
Error 500: Internal Server Error
Problem Description
This is a generic error message from the server, indicating that something went wrong on the server's end. It doesn't tell you much about the specific cause.
Common Causes
- Application bugs or unhandled exceptions
- Database connection issues
- Resource exhaustion (memory, CPU)
- Configuration errors
- Third-party service failures
Solutions
- Check server logs for detailed error messages and stack traces.
- Restart the application or server.
- Verify database connectivity and health.
- Review recent code changes or deployments.
- If the error is intermittent, monitor server resources.
Error 404: Not Found
Problem Description
The server cannot find the requested resource. This is typically because the URL is incorrect, the file has been moved, or it doesn't exist.
Common Causes
- Typo in the URL
- The requested page or file has been deleted or renamed
- Incorrectly configured routing
- Case sensitivity issues in file paths
Solutions
- Double-check the URL for typos.
- Ensure the file or resource exists at the specified path.
- Verify that any redirects or routing rules are correctly set up.
- Check file permissions.
Error 403: Forbidden
Problem Description
The server understood the request but refuses to authorize it. You don't have permission to access this resource.
Common Causes
- Missing or invalid authentication credentials
- Insufficient user privileges
- IP address restrictions
- Incorrect file/directory permissions on the server
Solutions
- Ensure you are logged in with the correct account.
- Verify your user role or permissions for the requested resource.
- Check if your IP address is allowed access.
- Consult with the system administrator regarding access rights.
Network Error: Timeout
Problem Description
The request took too long to complete and was terminated. This can happen due to slow network conditions or an overloaded server.
Common Causes
- Slow internet connection
- Server is under heavy load
- Large data transfers
- Firewall or proxy issues
Solutions
- Check your internet connection speed.
- Try accessing the resource again later.
- If possible, reduce the size of data being transferred.
- Contact your network administrator to check for potential bottlenecks.
Database Connection Error
Problem Description
The application cannot establish a connection with the database server, preventing data retrieval or storage.
Common Causes
- Incorrect database credentials (username, password, host, port)
- Database server is down or unreachable
- Firewall blocking the connection
- Database connection pool exhaustion
- Network issues between the application and database server
Solutions
- Verify database connection string and credentials.
- Ensure the database server is running and accessible.
- Check firewall rules on both the application and database servers.
- Monitor database server load and active connections.
- Restart the database service or application if necessary.
API Rate Limiting
Problem Description
You have exceeded the number of requests allowed within a specific time period by an API service.
Common Causes
- Making too many requests in rapid succession
- Not implementing proper backoff strategies
- Sharing an API key with too many users/applications
Solutions
- Implement exponential backoff and retry mechanisms.
- Cache API responses to reduce redundant calls.
- Distribute requests over a longer period.
- Check the API documentation for rate limit details and consider upgrading your plan if necessary.