Status messages from the File Transfer Protocol server

When you enter subcommands during a File Transfer Protocol (FTP) client session, status messages return to your display in a 3-digit code: xyz. Each digit has certain values that indicate a different status.

The first digit (x) tells you whether the response is good, bad, or incomplete. There are five values for the first digit:

• 1yz = Good. The requested action is being initiated; another reply should follow.

• 2yz = Good. The requested action was successfully completed; a new request may be initiated.

• 3yz = Incomplete. The subcommand was accepted, but the requested action is being held pending receipt of more information.

• 4yz = Incomplete. The FTP server did not accept the subcommand. The requested action did not take place. The error is temporary and you can request the action again.

• 5yz = Bad. The subcommand was not accepted, and the requested action did not take place.

The second digit (y) tells you the functional category of the response.

• x0z=Syntax. Refers to syntax errors, commands that aren't appropriate for what you're trying to do, and unnecessary commands.

• x1z=Information. Refers to requests for information, such as status or help.

• x2z=Connections. Refers to the control or data connections.

• x3z=Authentication. Refers to the login process.

• x5z=File system. Refers to the status of the FTP server in relation to the file transfer request.

The third digit (z) tells you a finer level of detail about the functional category.

The following table describes the common reply codes and what they indicate. The message text might vary for different systems.