API Status Explained

HTTP Status 103 – Early Hints

103 Early Hints helps the browser work faster before the final page loads. When a server takes time to prepare a webpage, the browser usually waits without action. It pauses until the final HTML response arrives. This delay slows down the visible load speed for users.

103 Early Hints fixes this issue. It sends a short response before the final result. The browser receives preload instructions and starts fetching key files. This improves performance and creates a smoother experience.

Why is 103 Early Hints Important?

Early Hints reduce waiting time for users and improve the first visible content.

The server knows which CSS, JavaScript, or fonts a page will need. So it shares these resource links early. The browser downloads them while the server completes the final response like 200 OK.

Key benefits:

  • Faster rendering of page layout
  • Reduced blank screen time
  • Better performance on busy sites
  • Improved user experience

Let’s explore how this helps users see content sooner.

Who Gains the Most from Status 103?

Browsers gain speed. Backend systems see little benefit.

Front-end clients (browsers):

  • Preload resources before HTML arrives
  • Apply assets immediately when the page loads
  • Reduce delays in user interface building

Back-end clients (cURL or API tools):

  • Do not display pages
  • Ignore preload hints
  • Wait for the final response

So 103 Early Hints is a browser-focused performance feature.

How Does the Browser Receive Early Hints?

Early Hints appear in HTTP headers, not in the response body.

Example:
HTTP/1.1 103 Early Hints
Link: </styles/main.css>; rel=preload; as=style
Link: </scripts/app.js>; rel=preload; as=script

You can view these preload links in:

  • Network tab in DevTools
  • Server logs
  • curl command with verbose mode

This helps browsers begin work during server processing.

Final Thoughts

103 Early Hints helps sites feel faster without changing code structure.

Users notice speed and smooth response. Websites show visible results sooner. This creates better trust and higher satisfaction. For performance-focused websites, 103 Early Hints is a smart improvement.

  • Faster pages.
  • Better experience.
  • Early action for a quick render.




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