A 404 error is one of the most common and misunderstood technical issues on the web. Whether you manage a WordPress site, an ecommerce platform, or a brochure website, 404 errors are almost unavoidable over time. At Peak District SEO, we deal with 404 errors every day as part of fixing website errors and all aspects of Technical SEO, helping businesses protect user experience, SEO value and long term website success.
This guide explains what a 404 error is, why it happens, how it affects users and search engines, and how it can be properly prevented and fixed.
What is a 404 error and why does it occur?
A 404 error, often referred to as a Page Not Found error, is an HTTP error code returned when a requested page, requested file or requested resource cannot be found on the server. The web server itself is reachable, but the specified URL does not point to valid content.
In simple terms, the browser (Chrome, Safari, etc) requests a page that does not exist. This may be a non existent page, a missing page, or content that has been removed or moved without proper URL redirection.
A 404 error is classed as a client error (on your computer/phone), not a server error. This distinction matters. It tells search engines and browsers that the issue relates to the requested URL rather than the web servers being offline or broken.
Different types of 404 errors
Although they look similar to users, 404 errors can occur for different technical reasons.
Client side 404 errors are the most common. These happen when a user enters an invalid URL, clicks an incorrect link, or follows an old URL that no longer exists. Invalid links from other websites often fall into this category.
Server related 404 errors can occur due to configuration errors. Issues with Apache, Internet Information Services, static file handler settings, wildcard MIME mapping or request filtering configuration can cause valid pages to return a 404 error incorrectly.
Soft 404 errors are particularly damaging for SEO. These occur when a page returns a success code but displays an error page to users. Google’s crawlers treat this as misleading and it can harm a website’s SEO value.
The impact of 404 errors on website users
From a user experience perspective, 404 errors are disruptive. A visitor expects to land on a desired page, but instead sees an error page with little guidance.
This creates frustration, increases bounce rates and reduces trust. On ecommerce websites, a missing product page can directly lead to lost sales. On service websites, broken pages can stop enquiries entirely.
Repeated encounters with error messages suggest poor maintenance. Users may question the site’s security, reliability and professionalism, especially if the error page lacks helpful links or a friendly message.
Common causes of 404 errors
There are many reasons why a website may generate 404 errors.
- Deleted pages are one of the biggest causes. When old pages are removed without redirecting to a new page, users and search engines are left hitting dead ends.
- Broken links are another major factor. These can exist within the website’s internal links or from external links pointing to missing content.
- Incorrect URLs also play a role. Typos, incorrect file names, incorrect folder paths, or protocol mismatches between Hypertext Transfer Protocol and secure versions can all lead to issues.
- Content management systems such as WordPress sites may generate 404 errors when permalinks change, plugins conflict, or updates are applied incorrectly.
- Changes to domain name settings, DNS settings, hosting plan migrations, or file transfer protocol configurations can also introduce errors if not handled carefully.
How 404 errors affect SEO and search engine results
From an SEO standpoint, unmanaged 404 errors can reduce a website’s visibility.
Search engines such as Google rely on crawlers to discover and evaluate content. When Google’s crawlers repeatedly hit broken pages or invalid URLs, the crawl budget is wasted. Important content may be crawled less often as a result.
Google Search Console and Bing Webmaster Tools regularly report 404 errors, alerting website administrators to potential issues. Ignoring these reports can slowly erode rankings.
However, it is important to note that 404 errors are not always bad. Returning a correct error code for genuinely missing pages is better than serving incorrect content. Proper error handling signals good technical hygiene.
Preventing 404 errors with proactive website audits
Prevention is always better than repair. Regular website audits are crucial for identifying and mitigating potential issues.
At Peak District SEO, we use tools such as Screaming Frog and Dead Link Checker to identify broken links, missing pages and invalid URLs. These audits cover internal and external links across the entire website domain.
When content is removed, proper redirect implementation ensures users and crawlers are sent to a relevant new URL or a different URL. This protects SEO value and preserves user journeys.
Routine audits also uncover configuration errors, outdated plugins and structural issues that may cause future errors.
The importance of custom 404 error pages
- A custom error page transforms a negative experience into a useful one.
- Instead of a generic error message, a custom error page can include helpful links to the home page, product pages or popular content. A search box or search bar allows users to find the correct content quickly.
- Clear language, friendly messaging and optional customer service contact details all contribute to a more positive user experience.
- From a branding perspective, a well-designed error page reinforces professionalism and trust, even when something goes wrong.
How to troubleshoot and fix 404 errors
Fixing 404 errors starts with identification.
Google Search Console highlights requested URLs returning errors. Server logs can also reveal repeated requests for missing pages or files.
Once identified, each error should be assessed. Some pages should be restored, others redirected, and some removed permanently.
URL redirection using proper redirect methods ensures users reach the correct page while preserving SEO value. Redirects should always be relevant and purposeful.
Technical troubleshooting may involve correcting configuration errors, updating file handlers, resolving Apache or web server issues, or clearing browser cache during testing. Testing in incognito mode and across multiple web browsers, such as Google Chrome, can also help isolate client-side issues.
Improving website navigation to reduce 404 errors
Strong navigation reduces the likelihood of users landing on missing pages.
Clear menu structures, logical page hierarchies and consistent internal linking make it easier for users and crawlers to reach the correct page.
A well-implemented search function allows users to recover quickly if a specific page is missing. Clear category structures for content and products also help prevent navigation dead ends.
At Peak District SEO, we treat navigation as a core part of Technical SEO rather than just a design feature.
Why addressing 404 errors matters for long-term website success
404 errors may seem minor individually, but over time they accumulate and damage trust, usability and SEO performance.
A website filled with broken pages signals neglect to users and search engines alike. Regular maintenance, audits and proper error handling protect a site’s visibility and reputation.
Fixing website errors and all aspects of Technical SEO is an ongoing process, not a one-off task. Businesses that take this seriously see stronger rankings, better engagement and improved conversions.
Frequently asked questions about 404 errors
What is a Page Not Found error and how does it affect website users?
A Page Not Found error appears when a requested page does not exist. It disrupts user journeys, causes frustration and often leads users to leave the site entirely.
How can error page design impact user experience?
A good error page design provides helpful links, a search box and clear guidance. This keeps users engaged and improves recovery from errors.
What are common causes of an invalid URL leading to a 404 error?
Broken links, deleted pages, incorrect file names, outdated bookmarks and structural changes without redirects are the most common causes.
Can HTTP errors like 404 be prevented through proper website maintenance?
Yes. Regular website audits, internal link checks, plugin updates and proper redirect strategies significantly reduce the number of 404 errors.
Is it possible for missing pages to cause multiple 404 errors?
Yes. A single missing page can be linked from multiple internal and external sources, creating repeated 404 errors across the site.
Fix 404 Errors and Strengthen Your Website Today
If your website is suffering from broken links, missing pages or technical issues, Peak District SEO can help. Our proven approach to fixing website errors and all aspects of Technical SEO protects rankings, improves user experience and supports long-term growth. Visit our contact page today to get expert support tailored to your website.
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I’m Phil Gregory, the MD and founder of Peak District SEO.
I’m an SEO & Google Ads Consultant with 28+ years of experience in I.T and helping UK Businesses improve website performance.
I built my first website in 1998, then I discovered the joys of website optimisation and never looked back.
If you want a no-nonsense, no-hard-sell approach and to actually get your website fixed with a solid, affordable, long-term approach, hit the contact button today.
Peak District SEO is a UK-based Digital Marketing Company.
We help businesses make more money, using traditional Search Engine Optimisation (SEO) , Ai Search / GEO and paid advertising (PPC).
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