Client errors (4xx)
401 Unauthorized
This page needs you to log in.
Quick answer
A 401 means the server wants valid login details before it shows the page. The site is online. Our check never logs in, so protected pages always look like this to us.
When to wait: Waiting does not help; a login is needed.
If you are visiting the website
- Log in again Sign out and sign back in, then reload the page.
- Check the address Make sure you are on the public page, not an admin or staging address.
If you run the website
- Check protection settings Make sure only private areas need a password, not the public homepage.
- Check login services If logins fail for everyone, check your identity provider or session storage.
Likely causes
- Common The page or whole site is password protected. (Website side)
- Sometimes Your login has expired. (Your side)
What to avoid
- Do not enter your password on a page you reached through an unexpected link.
Is the website down? Check it now
One measurement point. Results explain what we saw, not a worldwide verdict.
Related messages
Sources
Last reviewed: