Fix HTTP Error 503 Service Unavailable

Updated Feb 13, 2026
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The Problem: You visit a website and see a white screen saying "503 Service Unavailable."

The Short Answer: This is a server-side error. It means the website's server is currently unable to handle the request due to a temporary overloading or maintenance. It is rarely your fault.

Method 1: Refresh the Page

Since 503 errors are often caused by temporary traffic spikes, simply waiting a few seconds and refreshing often works.

  • Press F5 or Ctrl + R on your keyboard.
  • Wait 30 seconds and try again.
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Method 2: Check Site Status

Check if the site is down for everyone or just you.

  • Visit a site like DownDetector.com.
  • Type in the name of the website you are trying to visit.
  • If others are reporting problems, you just have to wait.

Method 3: Clear Browser Cache

Sometimes your browser remembers the error page even after the site is fixed.

  1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Delete.
  2. Select "Cached images and files."
  3. Click Clear Data.
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