Do you know anyone who never responds to your texts? Those who leave you on read for hours and then casually respond, “Oh, sorry, just saw this,” while you’ve been waiting impatiently? That is precisely what occurs when you run into a 504 Gateway Timeout error.
Your browser eagerly awaits a response from the website’s server. However, there is nothing in place for a prompt response or even a typing indicator. The website may be overloaded, experiencing technical issues, or simply waiting for another server to transmit the data so it doesn’t intentionally ghost you.
The outcome? Rather than loading the desired page, your browser gives up and displays the dreaded 504 error message.
You won’t have to wait forever, though, so don’t worry. We have the ideal troubleshooting procedures to resolve it and guarantee that your browser and the website can finally communicate once more. Now, let’s get started!
What Does 504 Gateway Timeout Mean?
When one server does not receive a timely response from another, a 504 Gateway Timeout occurs. Imagine it like a relay race in which one runner simply stops.
Instead of seeing the webpage you wanted, you’re left staring at an error message while the server you’re attempting to reach waits for a response.
This problem may be caused by network issues or by the website itself. In any case, let’s work out how to resolve the 504 gateway timeout error so you can resume your operations.
The most typical situations in which this happens are:
- The server of a website is overloaded and unable to react quickly.
- Two servers are having trouble communicating over the network.
- Your internet connection is too sluggish or erratic.
- The request is being blocked by a security system or firewall.
- Inefficient queries are causing backend database delays on the website.
Common Causes of Error 504
Here are the typical suspects for this error before we get into the fixes:
1. Server Overload: A website that receives excessive traffic may find it difficult to react quickly. This frequently happens during sales, viral content, or events with a lot of traffic.
2. Slow or Inaccurate DNS Resolution: Your requests may time out if your DNS settings are incorrect. Communication between your device and the website’s server may be delayed by a slow DNS.
3. Firewall Blocking Requests: Occasionally, overly stringent security settings may block valid traffic. This occurs particularly when sophisticated security tools inadvertently identify routine web requests as dangerous.
4. Problems with the Network: Error code 504 may be caused by an unreliable or weak internet connection. You won’t get the request done in time if your connection keeps dropping.
5. Extended Queries: Responses may be delayed if the backend database is sluggish. This issue is frequently brought on by poorly optimized queries or ineffective database structures.
6. Proxy server problems: Your connection may be slowed down by a proxy server that isn’t responding fast enough.
Also Read: 401 Unauthorized Error Explained: Causes & Fixes
10 Ways to Fix the 504 Gateway Timeout Error?
1. Reload the page
A quick refresh (F5 or Ctrl + R) can do wonders, but it sounds too easy. After a second try, the page might load without any issues if it was only a brief glitch. Websites occasionally experience brief glitches that go away on their own.
2. Examine other websites
Check to see if the issue is specific to one website before becoming alarmed. Try accessing different pages:
- Your internet connection could be the issue if every website is unavailable.
- The problem is probably on their end if only one site is impacted.
3. Restart the modem and router
Restarting it doesn’t just sound like an IT cliche; it works. After 30 seconds, unplug your router and modem and then re-plug them. This fixes short-term connection problems and revitalizes your network.
4. Try Using a Different Device or Browser
Try it on a different browser or device if the problem continues. If the website loads properly in another location, the issue is probably with the browser. It might be necessary for you to update or reset your browser.
5. Clear Your Browser’s Cache
Your browser may occasionally save out-of-date information. When you clear your cache, a new version of the website loads. Here’s how to accomplish it:
In Chrome, select Settings > Security & Privacy > Empty Browsing Data.
Go to Settings > Privacy & Security > Clear Data in Firefox.
Edge: Select Settings > Search & Services > Privacy > Delete Browsing Information
6. Turn off the proxy or VPN (if enabled).
Try turning off any VPNs or proxies you may be using. Certain networks limit connections, which results in errors or delays. Multiple servers can be used by VPNs to route traffic, which occasionally slows it down or causes timeouts.
7. Modify Your DNS Configuration
Changing to a public DNS can be helpful if the problem is DNS-related. Try the public DNS for Google:
8.8.8.8 is the preferred DNS server.
DNS server alternative: 8.8.4.4
This frequently enhances connectivity and speeds up DNS resolution.
8. Verify the Firewall Configuration
The connection may be blocked by a strict firewall. Make sure that no legitimate traffic is being rejected by your firewall if you are operating a website. Check to see if the website loads on personal devices after momentarily disabling your firewall.
9. Boost the Resources on Your Server
Your server may be overloaded if your website visitors are regularly receiving a 504 status code. To distribute traffic effectively, think about utilizing a content delivery network (CDN) or upgrading your hosting package.
10. Get in touch with website support
The site’s support staff should be contacted if nothing resolves the issue. They are able to verify whether there is a persistent problem on their end, such as planned maintenance or unplanned outages.
How Does the 504 Gateway Timeout Affect SEO?
Your website’s search engine rankings may suffer if it consistently returns error 504. Slow-loading or unresponsive websites are disliked by Google and can result in:
Reduced rankings: A poor user experience is indicated by frequent outages.
Increased bounce rates: When visitors are unable to access your content, they depart right away.
Reduced crawlability: It may be more difficult for search engines to index your pages.
If this occurs frequently, take quick action to prevent long-term harm to your SEO.
504 Gateway Timeout vs. Other HTTP Errors
Errors are not all the same. The 504 status code compares to the following:
502 Bad Gateway – A similar error, 502 Bad Gateway, is brought on by an upstream server’s incorrect response.
500 Internal Server Error – 500 A general problem with the web server itself is known as an internal server error.
503 Service Unavailable: The server is undergoing maintenance or is momentarily overloaded.
The crucial distinction? While other errors frequently indicate complete server failures, a 504 Gateway Timeout indicates that the request took too long and was dropped.
How to Prevent 504 Errors (For Website Owners)?
Here’s how to prevent your website’s visitors from wondering, “Why do I keep getting a gateway timeout?”
- Upgrade your hosting because slow responses are caused by cheap servers. Invest superior resources.
- Optimize your database because lengthy queries can cause lag.
- Using a CDN as Cloudflare and other content delivery networks (CDNs) can aid in the effective distribution of traffic.
- Verify the firewall rules; overly strict security settings could prevent valid requests.
- Keep an eye on server performance and set up notifications for periods of high traffic or sluggish response.
504 Gateway Timeout in Different Platforms (WordPress, AWS, Cloudflare, etc.)
Fixes for various hosting environments vary:
WordPress: Increase PHP execution time, clear cache, and disable plugins and themes.
AWS: Scale server instances and modify load balancer timeout settings.
Cloudflare: If you’re using Cloudflare, the origin server may be the problem. Look for errors in the logs.
It’s possible that your website’s server needed some rest. Overwhelming demands, excessive stress, and all of a sudden—timeout! It has just been given a well-earned reset with the correct fixes.
Whether you are a website owner or a visitor, understanding how to deal with 504 errors will allow you to spend more time completing tasks and less time glancing at error messages.
That is, unless you were simply seeking a reason to take a vacation. Then you’re very welcome!
