How to Fix the HTTP 403 Forbidden Error

The HTTP 403 Forbidden error is caused by limited access to a web domain or directory. Administrators can limit access to a web domain's directory by removing the anonymous user or requiring a password to view the content of the location. To remove or fix the error requires added permissions on the Windows host machine using the Internet Information Services (IIS) console. Once permissions are set, browsers to the domain will be able to access and read files normally again.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

1. Click the Windows "Start" button and select "Settings." From the menu, click "Control Panel."

2. Double-click the "Administrative Tools" icon. In this list of consoles, double-click the "Internet Information Services" icon. This opens the IIS settings console.

3. Right-click the directory from which web browsers are receiving the 403 error. Click the "Properties" entry in the menu.

4. Click the "Directory Security" tab in the Properties window. Click the first button that is labeled "Edit" in the "Anonymous Access" section. In this window, check the box that says "Anonymous Access." Click "OK" to return to the Properties window.

5. Click the "Directory" tab in the Properties window. Ensure that no other check boxes except "Read" are checked in the "Permissions" section. This allows users to read and browse website pages. Click the "OK" button.

6. Verify the changes by opening your web browser and entering the website domain in the address bar.

References

• aspadvice.com: SharePoint Error: HTTP Error 403 - Forbidden: Access is denied
• Microsoft TechNet: Setting IIS Web Site Permissions (IIS 6.0)

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish