How Can We Help You?

View Categories

What is a 404 error and how do I fix it?

A 404 error is an HTTP status code that indicates that the server could not find the requested resource. This means that the page or resource you are trying to access does not exist on the server. Here are some common causes and steps to fix a 404 error:

Common Causes of 404 Errors

  1. Incorrect URL: The most common cause is a mistyped URL. This can include wrong domain names, incorrect paths, or misspelt filenames.
  2. Moved or Deleted Page: The page might have been moved to a new location or deleted altogether without proper redirection.
  3. Broken Links: Links pointing to a resource that no longer exists or has been moved.
  4. Server Configuration Issues: Sometimes, server configuration issues or missing files can cause 404 errors.
  5. Caching Issues: Cached versions of the webpage in your browser or at the server level can also lead to 404 errors.

Steps to Fix 404 Errors

For Users

  1. Check the URL: Ensure that the URL is typed correctly. Look for any spelling mistakes or incorrect characters.
  2. Refresh the Page: Sometimes, simply refreshing the page can resolve the issue.
  3. Clear Browser Cache: Clearing the browser cache can help if the cached version of the page is causing the error.
  4. Go Back to the Homepage: If you navigate from the homepage, try going back and following the links again.

For Website Owners/Admins

  1. Correct the URL: If you moved the page, update the URL or fix any typos in the link.
  2. Implement 301 Redirects: If a page has been moved, set up a 301 redirect to the new location to guide users and search engines to the correct page.
  3. Update Links: Check your website for broken links and update them accordingly.
  4. Restore Deleted Pages: If the page was deleted by mistake, restore it from backups if possible.
  5. Check Server Configuration: Ensure that your server is configured correctly and that all necessary files are in place.
  6. Use Custom 404 Pages: Implement a custom 404 error page to provide users with helpful navigation options to find the information they are looking for.

Tools to Help Fix 404 Errors

  1. Google Search Console: It helps identify 404 errors on your site by providing a list of URLs that return a 404 status.
  2. Broken Link Checkers: Tools like Dead Link Checker, Screaming Frog, and W3C Link Checker can help find broken links on your website.
  3. Web Server Logs: Analyzing your web server logs can help you identify the source of 404 errors.

By following these steps, you can effectively diagnose and fix 404 errors, improving the user experience and maintaining the integrity of your website.