What is 404 Not Found?
A 404 Not Found error is an HTTP status code that indicates that the server could not locate the webpage or resource requested by the user. This means that while the server is reachable and functioning, the specific page being sought is unavailable.
The 404 error essentially informs users that the URL they are trying to access doesn’t exist or cannot be found on the server. Websites often display custom 404 error pages to provide a better user experience, explaining the issue and offering solutions like returning to the homepage or using a search bar.
Why Does 404 Not Found Occur?
404 errors happen for a variety of reasons:
1. Incorrect URL: One of the most common causes of a 404 error is when the user mistypes the URL or clicks on a link with an error.
2. Moved or Deleted Pages: If a webpage is moved to a new URL or deleted entirely without setting up proper redirects, users trying to access the old link will encounter a 404 error.
3. Broken Links: Sometimes, other websites may link to a page that no longer exists or the link needed to be corrected in the first place, leading users to a 404 page.
4. Outdated Bookmarks: If a user has saved an old version of a URL, it may lead to a 404 error if the page has been moved or deleted.
What is the Impact of 404 Not Found Errors?
404 errors can have several negative impacts on both user experience and website performance:
1. Poor User Experience: Users who encounter a 404 error might become frustrated, especially if they can’t find the information they are looking for. It can lead them to leave the site altogether, reducing engagement.
2. SEO (Search Engine Optimization): Search engines like Google view frequent 404 errors as a sign of poor website maintenance. It can negatively affect the website’s ranking in search results, as search engines aim to deliver quality and up-to-date results to users.
3. Loss of Traffic: If important pages are missing and visitors frequently encounter 404 errors, it can result in a loss of traffic, which directly affects the website’s visibility and performance.
How to Identify 404 Errors on Your Website
There are several tools and methods to help identify and address 404 errors:
1. Google Search Console: This tool provides reports on crawl errors, including 404 pages. It helps site owners track which URLs are causing errors and where users are encountering them.
2. Website Audit Tools: Tools like Screaming Frog, SEMrush, and Ahrefs can crawl your website and report any broken links or 404 errors, helping to ensure that pages are working as expected.
3. Server Logs: Server logs can track user requests and responses, highlighting 404 errors that occur when users attempt to access missing pages.
4. Custom Error Reporting: Websites can be configured to log and report 404 errors automatically, making it easier for administrators to track and fix them.
By regularly monitoring and fixing 404 errors, website owners can improve user experience, retain traffic, and maintain a healthy SEO profile.