Understand 404 error
What is a 404 error
A 404 status code error appears when a server cannot find a requested page. It signals to browsers and search engines that the URL is unavailable. This 404 error code marks a missing resource.
Key points:
- Part of the HTTP status codes in the 4xx range
- Indicates a missing resource on the web server
- Impacts both user experience and SEO
Hard vs soft 404 errors
Site owners encounter two main 404 variants. A hard 404 returns a proper 404 status. A soft 404 shows a missing page yet returns status 200.
Common types:
- Hard 404: server returns 404 status with no content
- Soft 404: server shows missing content but reports status 200
- Redirect loops: misconfigured redirects leading back to a 404 page
Identify common error examples
Site owners often spot 404 errors in different scenarios. Seeing real examples clarifies the fix. These cases reveal underlying causes.
Error caused by typos
A single character mistake breaks the link. Typos can hide in menus, blogs, or ad campaigns. They surface as missing pages in logs.
Examples of typos:
- Missing hyphens or underscores in URLs
- Wrong file extensions like .php instead of .html
- Extra slashes or omitted subfolders
Error after page deletion
Deleting content without redirects triggers a hard 404. This often happens during pruning or rebranding. It leaves broken links across the site.
Error from domain change
Migrating to a new domain without redirects breaks legacy links. Search engines and bookmarks still point to the old site. This yields a flood of 404s.
Common error messages
Typical 404 pages display:
- 404 error not found
- Error 404
- 404 file or directory not found
- HTTP 404
- 404 error message
Diagnose broken links
Finding broken links is the first step to a fix. Site owners need a clear view of all 404s. Two main tool types help diagnose issues.
Use Google Search Console
Site owners can view crawl errors in Google Search Console. It lists all URLs returning 404 codes. They can download reports to analyze broken links.
Run crawling tools
They may also run crawlers like SEMrush, Dead Link Checker, or Broken Link Checker. These tools flag all URLs that return a missing status. They offer export functions for further review.
Fix 404 errors
Resolving 404 errors protects site reputation and SEO health. A clear plan cuts bounce rates.
Owners maintain link equity. They can consult a detailed guide on how to fix 404 errors.
Redirect missing pages
Site owners should set up a 404 error redirect using a 301 status. A permanent redirect passes link value to a new URL. It fixes most broken links.
Example Apache rule:
Redirect 301 /old-page.html https://example.com/new-page.html
Nginx equivalent:
rewrite ^/old-page.html$ https://example.com/new-page.html permanent;
Restore or update content
If a URL still holds value, owners may restore the original page. They can update its content and link structure. This tactic preserves inbound links and user trust.
Steps to restore:
- Check for backlinks to the missing URL
- Retrieve a backup or archive copy
- Refresh content to match current site goals
Remove unused URLs
For obsolete pages with no backlinks, removal may be best. They should return a clean 410 status instead of 404. This signals search engines to drop the URL faster.
Improve error pages
Custom error pages can rescue lost visitors. A helpful design guides users back to the site. It lowers bounce rates.
Design a custom 404 page
A branded 404 error page turns a mistake into an opportunity. Owners can use brand colors and clear text.
Key design tips:
- Review custom 404 error pages for inspiration
- Use concise, friendly copy
- Include brand-identifying visuals
Add navigation options
Including links to the homepage and key sections helps users recover. A site map or menu works well. They find relevant pages without frustration.
Include a search box
A search field on the error page aids discovery. It offers an immediate path to content. This simple feature improves user retention.
Monitor and maintain
Ongoing checks prevent 404 errors from piling up. Data from tools helps prioritize fixes. Site owners must keep a regular routine.
Schedule regular audits
They should run link audits at least monthly. Tools can automate reports and alerts. This step catches new errors early.
Check external links
Broken links on other sites can cause 404s. Owners need to audit backlinks periodically. They can request updates or add redirects.
Track user metrics
Analytics reveal how often visitors hit 404 pages. A spike may signal new errors. Teams can then dive into 404 error troubleshooting.
Troubleshooting reference table
| Symptom | Cause | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Page missing after delete | Deleted page without redirect | Set up 301 redirect to a relevant page |
| Unexpected typo in URL | Misspelled link in content or menu | Correct the URL or update internal links |
| Legacy links after domain change | No redirect rules for old domain | Create redirects at DNS or server level |
| Obsolete page without backlinks | Content no longer relevant | Return 410 status or remove URL entirely |
| External site points to 404 | Backlink to a removed or moved page | Request update or set up a redirect |
Revisit action plan
Site owners should spot common 404 error causes then implement fixes. They must maintain custom pages and run audits regularly. This routine ensures a seamless experience and strong SEO.
source https://localseoagency.co.za/404-error-examples/
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