404 error – What Is It, why does it happen, and how can it be fixed?
The “404 error” is a frequently encountered issue in web development, and most developers will experience it sooner or later. If you’re a beginner web developer, it’s essential to understand what a 404 error means, what causes it, and how you can prevent and fix it.
In this post, we’ll explore the most common causes of 404 errors and their solutions so that you can easily resolve the issue if you encounter it.
What is a 404 error?
A 404 error is an HTTP status code that appears when the browser cannot find the page you are trying to access on the server. It often appears as a “404 Not Found” message, indicating that the requested page is unavailable.
What causes a 404 error?
A 404 error can occur for several reasons, but the most common issues include:
- Typographical errors in links: If a link’s URL is misspelled or entered incorrectly, the browser won’t be able to load the page and will return a 404 error.
- Deleted or moved pages: When a page is deleted or moved to a new URL without setting up a redirect, visitors trying to access the old URL will encounter a 404 error.
- Incorrect file name or directory path: Improperly named files or incorrect folder structures can also trigger this error.
- Broken links in menus or internal links: If an internal link is incorrect—such as a changed menu link URL that hasn’t been updated—it can lead to a 404 error.
How can you avoid a 404 error?
By anticipating errors and taking preventive measures, you can save yourself and your visitors a lot of frustration. Here are some tips:
- Regular link checks: Use SEO tools or plugins (e.g., Screaming Frog, Ahrefs) to scan your website and detect broken links. This way, you can quickly identify and fix any non-working links.
- Avoid changing URL structures: If possible, avoid modifying URL structures. If you must make changes, set up a 301 redirect to the new URL so that visitors accessing the old address are automatically redirected.
- Pre-configured 404 page: Create a custom 404 page that informs visitors the page is not found and provides helpful links or a search bar for easy navigation.
- Regularly check and update links: Especially for dynamic content such as blog posts or product pages, ensure that internal and external links remain up to date.
How can optimizing the 404 error page help with SEO?
Fixing 404 errors not only enhances user experience but also benefits SEO. Reducing the number of broken pages increases your website’s credibility in the eyes of search engines and improves overall site performance.
Custom 404 error pages can help retain visitors by providing helpful navigation options, ultimately reducing bounce rates and keeping users engaged on your site.
Summary
A 404 error is a common issue, but with proper maintenance and optimization, it can be prevented and easily fixed. Regular link checks, setting up 301 redirects, and creating a well-designed 404 error page help ensure that your website runs smoothly and provides a positive user experience.
For more useful content, check out our SEO consulting page or read our previous articles on web development!
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