What is a “404 Error” or “404 Not Found”?
Sometimes, when you visit a webpage or request a resource from a website, you may encounter a ‘404 error’ or ‘404 Not Found’. This is a standard HTTP error code indicating that the server cannot find the webpage or file. It could also mean that the page does not exist on the server, or for some reason, the client (user’s browser) cannot access it
When a 404 error occurs, the browser displays a message to the user stating that the requested page or resource from the website cannot be found. Web developers can customize this error message to provide more information or suggest alternative pages for users to visit.
Common causes of 404 Not found Error:
Here are some of the most common causes of 404 Error, and the solutions to fix them.
Cause of 404 Error:
Content has been removed, or relocated, or the entire website has moved.
Fix:
This is a server-side error and the most common cause for 404 errors. It can be fixed by implementing a 301 redirect from the old URL to the new one.
Cause of 404 Error:
Incorrectly typed addresses in the browser’s bar:
Fix:
It is a user-side error, and users need to double-check the URL for typos.
Cause of 404 Error:
DNS settings are outdated, incorrect, or have not yet completed propagation:
Fix:
This can be fixed by Checking and updating your website’s DNS settings.
Cause of 404 Error:
Browsers cached the error page, leading to a persistent error:
Fix:
This is a user-side error, and they need to clear their browser cache.
Cause of 404 Error:
Not clearing a browser cache or cookies:
Fix:
Users need to clear their browser cache and cookies.
Cause of 404 Error:
File on a web page is too large:
Fix:
Web developer need to Reduce the file size with compression or resizing the file. If the file can’t be reduced in size, you might need to consider upgrading your website hosting package or using a content delivery network (CDN) to serve the file.
Cause of 404 Error:
Moving a web page or resource to a new URL or directory:
Fix:
Update all existing internal and external links pointing to the old URL to the new URL.
Remember, it’s always a good idea to regularly check your website for 404 errors to maintain a good user experience.