The HTTP 409 conflict error is a status code that indicates a conflict between the current state of a resource and the client’s request to modify or update that resource. This usually happens when more than one party tries to edit the same resource simultaneously, and the server gets confused. That is a conflict between the HTTPS request and the resource. This conflict error may be frustrating and decrease the website’s reputation, negatively impacting the site owner.
The HTTP 409 error can be fixed on the client or server side. You either need to remove specific software or review the server configuration.
What is HTTP 409 Conflict Error?
After the HTTP request is made, upon loading the website, the 409 Error may prevent you from accessing the website. The HTTP 409 error belongs to the 400s error codes. They are primarily client-side issues but can also appear on the server. This 400 HTTP error indicates that the request wasn’t completed because of a problem with the resources’ current state. Most 400 errors arise from invalid request syntax, rendering it incomprehensive to the server. In comparison, 409 errors occur when a request directly conflicts with the existing state of the server.
Why Do 409 errors happen, and is that a “real” problem?
An HTTP 409 error usually occurs in response to a PUT request. The HTTP PUT method request creates or replaces a new resource. If the PUT request contains conflicting values, the server will detect them and throw the HTTP 409 error. The error also appears when there is a version control difference between the uploaded and existing files.
The HTTP 409 error is not the real problem that is unresolvable. It can be resolved quickly but can be frustrating if you’re in a hurry and want to access a website. We will provide steps to avoid this error, whether client or server-related.
How to fix the HTTP 409 Error?
Check the URL
It may be straightforward, but always check if you get this error. If the URL contains incorrect information, it is worth checking for typos if you manually entered it in your browser. You can also refresh the page and resolve the error immediately.
Web Browser Cache
Information from the website is saved in its cache and cookies. Clearing them fixes certain problems, like loading or formatting issues and even the HTTP 409 conflict error. If the cache is not occasionally cleared, it may pull resources from the cache instead of sending new requests. A 409 conflict might still load even if the issue has been previously fixed. However, it mostly appears because it is still in your cache.
Rollback Website Updates
Your recent website update may cause the 409 HTTP error. Updating the website implies plugins and themes if you use CMS websites like WordPress. This is also true with modules if you use e-commerce platforms like Magento. Roll back only the updated part of the website and see if that will fix the issue. If necessary, you may need to remove the unnecessary plugins or extensions. If you don’t want to remove any plugins, deactivate them. Then, you can activate them individually to detect which one is your culprit.
Server Configuration
The server configuration must be checked on the server side. You need to check the code and see if optimization is needed. Also, the database queries must be checked. Above all, always check the server logs, especially the requests, because they can result in a 409 HTTP conflict error.
Scan the website
Scanning a website is essential to identify and remove vulnerabilities before attackers can exploit them proactively. Malicious scripts could be uploaded to the server, and the web server configuration files could be changed. So, anti-malware software is always a good idea if you face the HTTP 409 conflict error.
Conclusion
When there is a conflict during the request, you will likely see the HTTP 409 error because the server can not send relevant information to the client browser. Resolving HTTP 409 is crucial for maintaining server operations and data integrity. It is also important for the website’s uptime, and the required steps are already explained in the previous paragraphs. Implementing those steps will help you access the website again.
That’s it! You have learned some basic steps for resolving the HTTP 409 Conflict Error.
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