404
404 Not Found Explained
What This Error Means
The 404 Not Found error is the most recognizable HTTP status code. It indicates that the server was contacted successfully, but it could not locate the specific resource, page, or file requested by the client. Unlike a 500 error, which indicates a server failure, a 404 error indicates that the server is functioning correctly but the requested content is missing.
Common Causes
- Typographical errors where the user simply typed the URL incorrectly.
- The page or file was removed from the server without a redirect being set up.
- Broken links where an internal or external link points to a destination that no longer exists.
- Changing the URL structure in CMS platforms like WordPress without updating existing links causes 404s.
- Misconfigured .htaccess or Nginx rules preventing the server from routing the request to the correct handler.
How to Fix It (For Users)
- 1 Check the URL for spelling mistakes, extra characters, or missing slashes.
- 2 Move up a directory by deleting the last part of the URL to see if the parent category exists.
- 3 Use the site's search function to find the content you are looking for.
- 4 Clear your browser cache, as occasionally a browser may cache a 404 response.
For Site Owners / Developers
- If you moved or deleted a page, always set up a 301 Permanent Redirect to the most relevant existing page.
- Use tools like Google Search Console or a broken link checker to identify and fix dead links on your site.
- If you get 404s on all posts but the homepage works, go to Settings > Permalinks in WordPress and simply click Save Changes to flush the rewrite rules.
- Ensure your server is configured to route requests to your application's entry point if the file doesn't exist physically.
- Create a helpful custom 404 page with a search bar and links to popular content to keep users on your site.
When It Is NOT Your Fault
If you clicked a link from an external website that points to a page that no longer exists, the error is on the linking site or the destination site, not you.
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