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How do I fix the "403 restricted error" with the "openresty" message when trying to visit a friends' site on a custom domain linked through Webflow?

TL;DR

A 403 Forbidden error with an "openresty" message on a custom domain in Webflow usually indicates an issue with domain setup or access restrictions. Follow these steps to resolve it:

1. Verify Domain Connection in Webflow

  • Go to Webflow Project Settings > Hosting
  • Check if your custom domain is showing as Connected
  • If there are warnings, follow Webflow’s instructions to fix them

2. Check DNS Settings

  • Ensure the A records and CNAME are correctly set up in your domain provider:
  • A records:
    • 75.2.70.75
    • 99.83.190.102
  • CNAME:
    • www → proxy-ssl.webflow.com
  • If you've recently updated DNS settings, wait up to 48 hours for propagation

3. Remove Extra or Conflicting DNS Entries

  • Check for old A records or CNAME entries that might conflict with Webflow
  • Remove non-Webflow-related DNS records that point to other IPs

4. Ensure the Correct Default Domain

  • In Webflow hosting settings, set "www.yourdomain.com" as the default domain
  • Avoid setting the root domain (yourdomain.com) as the default unless using specific DNS providers that support it

5. Check Site Status in Webflow

  • Ensure the project is published to the custom domain
  • Republish the site and test the domain again

6. Clear Cache & Test in Incognito Mode

  • Clear browser cache or try visiting the site in incognito/private mode
  • Flush your DNS cache (ipconfig /flushdns on Windows or sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder on macOS)

7. Contact Webflow Support

If the issue persists, submit a ticket to Webflow support with:

  • Your Webflow project URL
  • A screenshot of your DNS settings
  • The error message you’re receiving

Summary:

The "403 Forbidden – OpenResty" error on a Webflow site usually stems from incorrect DNS settings or domain configuration. Double-check your A records, CNAME, default domain, and publishing status, then wait for DNS propagation. If the issue persists, contact Webflow support for assistance.

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