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What causes the 404 error not found message?
Users often see a 404 message when browsing because a link’s page doesn’t exist; websites can make the situation more light-hearted by adding a funny message or meme. Links with typos can also cause a 404 error message, and these are easily fixed by typing in the correct name.
Temporary server problems can also cause 404 errors, but these are usually solved within a few minutes at most. You’ll probably know why you see 404s on your site, and you should keep these different reasons in mind; understanding them will make these problems easier to fix.
Prevention Tips (For Website Owners): When you update or rebrand your website, check all of your links. Setting up proper redirects is also a good idea, and so is monitoring your server for issues. Picking a server with strong uptime is also necessary, and so is regularly auditing your site.
How can I prevent error 404 messages?
Since 404 errors normally occur for similar reasons, site owners can stop these from happening in the first place. Use 301 redirects when changing URLs, whether that’s because you’re updating your website or you’re directing an article to a different page.
You should also consider customizing 404 pages. Tell users where they should go by adding links to different pages, such as your homepage. Test different approaches to see which ones work for you.
Can you bypass a 404 error?
Genuine 404 pages exist because the page isn’t on the server, but the site developer can fix them easily. You can double-check the URL, try a cached version, and remove parameters. However, it’s a good idea to check for underlying issues and see if a permanent solution is needed.
How do you fix a 404: page not found error?
This depends on why you see the 404, to begin with. Follow the following steps for each scenario:
- Broken Links: Update the link to the new URL; if your site address has changed, add the new one.
- Deleted Page: Set up a 301 redirect to a different page or restore the deleted page.
- Server Issues: Wait a few minutes and it should fix itself; contact your server administrator for more assistance if needed.
Is there a difference between a 404 error and other error codes?
404 is a specific HTTP code that means “not found”; there are several of additional status codes worth knowing about.
Examples include:
- 401: Unauthorized (you can fix this by getting admin permissions)
- 403: Forbidden (you can fix this by turning off your VPN and disabling plugins)
- 500: Internal Server Errors (you can fix this clearing your browser cache and cookies)
What are some creative ways websites use 404 error pages?
While 404 errors can frustrate users, you can have some fun with these pages and make them more light-hearted.
Here are some examples to consider:
- Humor: Make jokes and include puns on 404 error pages. Examples of companies that do this are Lego and Inzone Design.
- Games: Turn 404 error pages into mini-games that users can play.
- Interactive Elements: Use clickable objects, animations, and puzzles on your error pages.
- Search Bars: Add a search bar on 404 pages so that users can type what they’re looking for and stay on your site for longer.
- Brand Reinforcement: Use visuals (e.g. fun graphics), messages, and other brand-related things on 404 error pages.
Experiment on your error pages and get feedback. You should also help the user find what they were initially looking for.
Functionality and creativity are both equally important, so you shouldn’t swing too far to one side or the other.
Conclusion
404 errors are inevitable, but you can get creative and turn them into a positive experience. First, understand why users are seeing these and do what you can to fix those problems. Normally, you’ll need to update links, set up redirects, or check your web server. Try different 404 error pages and see which ones work best for your brand.
