What is a 404 Error?

    A 404 status code is sent by a server when a browser or scanner requests a web page that the server cannot find. In simple terms, it means that the page does not exist or cannot be found.

    The official documentation does not use the term “error” in its definition of a 404 status code:

    “A 404 (not found) status code indicates that the source server has not found a current representation for the target resource or is unwilling to disclose that one exists. A 404 status code does not indicate whether this lack of representation is temporary or permanent; a 410 (Gone) status code is preferable to a 404 if the source server knows, presumably through some customized means, that the condition is likely to be permanent.”

    404 error


    Are 404 Status Codes Errors?

    Although the official definition avoids the term “error,” 404 and similar codes (e.g., 400, 410) are part of the client error response category. This means the server is informing the browser or scanner (the client) that their request cannot be fulfilled due to an issue on the client side, such as a request for a non-existent page.

    Do 404 Errors Affect Website Rankings?

    A large number of 404 responses on a website will not directly affect the rankings of other parts of the site. However, a poor user experience caused by numerous broken links might indirectly impact metrics like bounce rate and engagement, which could influence rankings.

    How to Handle 404 Responses

    Using Redirects

    Redirects are useful when:

    • A web page has been moved to a new location.
    • A product or resource has been discontinued and replaced with a similar or related option.

    When Not to Use Redirects for 404 Pages

    Redirects should not be used when the new destination page is irrelevant to the user’s expectations. For example, redirecting a user looking for a specific product to a generic homepage or unrelated product page creates a poor user experience.

    When Is It Appropriate to Show a 404 Response?

    It is perfectly acceptable to return a 404 response when a requested page no longer exists. Ensure the 404 page provides a clear message and a good user experience. Consider creating an engaging 404 page, perhaps with humor or helpful links, to retain visitors. For instance, a 404 page could explain why certain pages no longer exist or redirect users to other relevant parts of the website.

    A 404 response is not inherently detrimental to your site’s SEO if handled correctly. Focus on providing a good user experience, addressing broken links, and avoiding inappropriate redirects to maintain both user satisfaction and search performance.

    SEM MasterPlus: Complex website promotion.

    404 Errors and SEO: How Do Multiple 404 Errors Affect a Website's Ranking?