A 404 error is an HTTP status code that indicates the server could not find the requested webpage. This error occurs when a user tries to access a webpage that doesn’t exist or has been moved or deleted. The 404 error message typically displays as “404 Not Found” or “Page Not Found.”
Common reasons for encountering a 404 error include:
- Typing the wrong URL.
- Clicking on a broken link.
- The website has been redesigned, and the old URL structure has changed.
- The webpage has been deleted or moved without proper redirection.
- Temporary server or connectivity issues.
Web servers return a 404 error to inform users that the requested page is unavailable. To fix a 404 error, website owners should ensure that their website structure is well-maintained, regular checks for broken links are conducted, and proper redirects are in place when pages are moved or deleted. Visitors encountering a 404 error may be redirected to a relevant page or a custom error page to improve user experience.