Error 404

Definition

Error 404 (also called 404 Not Found) is an HTTP status code that indicates a webpage could not be found on the server. This error takes place when a user attempts to access a missing, deleted, or incorrectly linked page. While a 404 error does not mean the entire website is down, it can frustrate users and negatively impact SEO if not properly handled.

Why It Matters

A 404 error can hurt user experience, reduce website traffic, and impact search rankings if too many pages return this error. Common reasons for 404 errors include:

• Deleted or moved pages without proper redirection.
• Broken or mistyped URLs.
• Expired links from external sources.
• Website restructuring without updating links.

Properly handling 404 errors with custom error pages, redirects, and broken link management helps retain visitors and maintain SEO rankings.

How It’s Used

• Custom 404 Pages: Websites create branded 404 error pages with helpful navigation or search options.
• Redirects (301 & 302): Missing pages are redirected to relevant content to prevent dead ends.
• Broken Link Fixing: Regular audits identify and repair broken internal and external links.
• User Guidance: 404 pages often include links to the homepage or contact support.
• SEO Optimization: Google Search Console can detect 404 errors and suggest fixes.

Web developers use tools like Google Search Console, Screaming Frog, and Ahrefs to monitor and resolve 404 errors efficiently.

Example in Action

An e-commerce store removes an old product page, but customers still find it through search engines. Instead of showing a blank 404 error:

• They set up a 301 redirect to a related product page.
• They update internal links to avoid sending users to a missing page.
• Their custom 404 page suggests similar products to keep users engaged.

By properly handling 404 errors, they reduce bounce rates and improve user experience.

Common Questions and Answers

1. What does Error 404 mean?
   • It means the requested webpage is missing or unavailable on the server.
2. Does a 404 error affect SEO?
   • Yes, if too many pages return 404 errors, search rankings may drop. Redirecting missing pages helps maintain SEO.
3. How do I fix 404 errors on my website?
   • Use tools like Google Search Console to find broken links. Set up 301 redirects for missing pages.
4. Can I customize my 404 error page?
   • Yes! A custom 404 page with navigation links improves user experience and keeps visitors engaged.
5. What’s the difference between a 404 and a 410 error?
   • 404 means “Not Found” (temporary or unknown status), while 410 means “Gone” (permanently deleted page).

Unusual Facts

1. Google treats 404 errors differently for active vs. inactive websites—occasional 404s won’t harm rankings, but excessive ones will.
2. The first recorded 404 error message appeared in the early days of the web when broken links became common.
3. Many websites create funny or creative 404 pages to entertain users instead of frustrating them.
4. 404 pages can increase bounce rates—users often leave a site if they hit a dead-end.
5. A 301 redirect is the best way to handle a permanently missing page, as it preserves SEO value.

Tips and Tricks

1. Set up 301 redirects for deleted pages to direct users to relevant content.
2. Use Google Search Console to track and fix broken links regularly.
3. Create a helpful 404 page with a search bar and links to key pages.
4. Regularly check internal and external links to avoid unnecessary 404 errors.
5. Monitor site analytics to see if users frequently hit 404 pages and update links accordingly.

True Facts Beginners Often Get Wrong

1. A 404 error does not mean the entire website is down—it only affects specific pages.
2. Deleting a page without a redirect can harm SEO—Google may remove it from search rankings.
3. Visitors are more likely to leave a website if they hit a generic 404 page—customizing it helps keep them engaged.
4. Fixing 404 errors manually is not always necessary—some can be ignored if they come from outdated external links.
5. Soft 404 errors (pages that return a “Not Found” message but still load) can confuse search engines and should be properly handled.

Related Terms

[Broken Link Checking] [301 Redirect] [Website Maintenance] [User Experience (UX)] [SEO Optimization]