HTTP 205 Reset Content Explained

What is a 205 status code?

HTTP status codes are an essential part of communication between web servers and clients. They provide information about the result of a request made by a client to a server. Among these status codes, the 205 Reset Content status code holds a unique purpose.

When a server responds to a client request with a 205 status code, it indicates that the request has been successfully received and understood by the server, but the client should reset the document view. In simpler terms, it instructs the client to clear the form or input fields used for the request, effectively resetting them.

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What are the possible use cases for 205 status code?

Form Submission:

One common scenario where the 205 status code is useful is during form submissions. After a user submits a form, the server may respond with a 205 status code to prompt the client to clear the form fields, preventing accidental resubmission of the same data.

Real-time Data Updates:

In applications where real-time data updates are crucial, such as stock market monitoring or live sports scores, the server may utilize the 205 status code to notify the client to refresh the displayed content without reloading the entire page.

Interactive Web Applications:

205 status code can also be handy in interactive web applications where users perform multiple actions without leaving the page. It helps in maintaining a clean and intuitive user interface by clearing input fields or resetting the application state after each action.

How to implement 205 status code in JavaScript?

Implementing the 205 status code in JavaScript involves handling server responses appropriately. Here's a basic example using XMLHttpRequest:

var xhr = new XMLHttpRequest();
xhr.onreadystatechange = function() {
  if (xhr.readyState === XMLHttpRequest.DONE) {
    if (xhr.status === 205) {
      // Reset the document view or form fields
      document.getElementById("form").reset();
    }
  }
};
xhr.open('GET', '/submit-form', true);
xhr.send();

In this example, when the server responds with a 205 status code, the form with the id "form" will be reset.

Best Practices for using 205 status code

Provide Clear Instructions:

When using the 205 status code, ensure that the response includes clear instructions for the client on what action to take, such as resetting form fields or refreshing content.

Limit Usage:

Avoid overusing the 205 status code. Reserve it for specific scenarios where resetting the document view is necessary to prevent confusion or errors.

Accessibility Considerations:

Ensure that the reset action triggered by the 205 status code does not hinder accessibility for users relying on assistive technologies.

How to test 205 status code on Postman?

To test the 205 status code in Postman, follow these steps:

Open Postman and create a new request.
Enter the URL of the server endpoint that responds with a 205 status code.
Send the request.
Check the response status in the "Response" section of Postman. If it shows 205, the test is successful.

How to test 205 status code in DevTools browser in Chrome?

Testing the 205 status code in Chrome DevTools is straightforward:

Open Chrome DevTools by right-clicking on the webpage and selecting "Inspect," or pressing Ctrl+Shift+I (Windows/Linux) or Cmd+Option+I (Mac).
Go to the "Network" tab.
Perform the action that triggers the server response with a 205 status code.
Look for the corresponding request in the network activity list.
Click on the request to view detailed information, including the response status code, in the "Headers" or "Response" sections.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if a client ignores the 205 status code?

If a client ignores the 205 status code, it may lead to unintended behavior such as duplicate form submissions or outdated content being displayed.

Can a server send additional data along with a 205 status code?

No, the 205 status code response should not include any additional data. It serves solely as an instruction for the client to reset the document view.

Is the 205 status code cacheable?

No, the 205 status code response is not cacheable by default as it requires immediate action from the client.

Can the 205 status code be used for redirecting?

No, the 205 status code is specifically intended for resetting the document view and should not be used for redirection purposes.

Are there any security considerations when using the 205 status code?

Developers should ensure that the reset action triggered by the 205 status code does not expose sensitive information or create security vulnerabilities.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the 205 Reset Content HTTP status code plays a crucial role in web development, particularly in maintaining a seamless user experience by instructing clients to reset document views. By understanding its use cases, implementation methods, and best practices, developers can enhance the functionality and usability of their web applications. For effective error monitoring and handling, consider utilizing Zipy's tool, which offers session replay capabilities. Learn more about Zipy here.