What it means
The server is returning only part of the resource. Success responses mean the server understood and handled the request.
Common causes
Range requests for video, audio and resumable downloads.
How to fix it
Nothing to fix; check Range handling if downloads or streaming break.
If you are a visitor
Nothing is wrong. Your browser handles this response automatically.
If you own the site
No action needed. Pages that return 200 can be indexed. Make sure error pages never return 200 (a "soft 404"). Run the HTTP status checker to see exactly what your URL returns, and use uptime monitoring to be told when it changes.
Frequently asked questions
What does HTTP 206 mean?
Partial Content: The server is returning only part of the resource.
Is HTTP 206 an error?
No. Success responses mean the server understood and handled the request.
Does HTTP 206 affect SEO?
Pages that return 200 can be indexed. Make sure error pages never return 200 (a "soft 404").
Should I retry after HTTP 206?
No action needed.