404 Error

  • 404 Error: A 404 error is an HTTP status code that indicates the server could not find the webpage the user attempted to access. This often happens if the webpage has been deleted or moved without a proper redirect being put in place. It can also occur if the URL is typed incorrectly. For a good user experience, it’s important to customize the 404 error page with helpful information and links for the visitor, rather than using the default 404 error page.
image showing 404 error by someone looking through binoculars at a blank webpage with the numbers "404" on it in riveted metal style

Why 404 Errors Matter to Marketers

404 errors are not an ideal experience for the user. However, marketers can use customized 404 error pages to mitigate potential issues. A well-designed 404 page can guide lost users back to relevant parts of your website, offer an explanation or apology for the error, and maintain some level of user engagement. However, regularly checking for and fixing 404 errors is important for SEO, as a large number of 404 errors can impact a site’s search ranking. Therefore, understanding and addressing 404 errors is an important part of a marketer’s job.