# 500 error: what it is and how it works · Zorraquino
> An HTTP 500 error indicates that the server has encountered an unexpected condition that prevents it from fulfilling the request.
URL: https://www.zorraquino.com/en/dictionary/internet/error-500.html

# 500 error

An HTTP 500 error indicates that the server has encountered an unexpected condition that prevents it from fulfilling the request. It is a general response and does not identify the cause on its own

What it means, how it is used and where it comes up, with its related concepts.

[The whole glossary](https://www.zorraquino.com/en/dictionary)

## What it is and how it works

Investigating the [server](https://www.zorraquino.com/en/dictionary/internet/server.html) failure requires logs and context about the operation. By contrast, 4xx codes indicate issues with the request or access to the resource, without always implying that the user made a mistake. The interface should explain the failure without exposing internal data and offer a useful way to recover.

Also known as

Internal Server Error, HTTP 500

Topics

[Technology and data](https://www.zorraquino.com/en/dictionary/category/tecnologia-y-datos)

## Related concepts

- [404 error](https://www.zorraquino.com/en/dictionary/internet/error-404.html)
- [HTTP](https://www.zorraquino.com/en/dictionary/internet/http.html)
- [Server](https://www.zorraquino.com/en/dictionary/internet/server.html)