What are 404 Errors and How to Fix Them in WordPress

Yes, you’ve seen 404 errors, although you may not have been aware of their name.

What is a 404 Error?

A 404 errorĀ is a response code indicating that the server doesn’t know what you’re looking for.

This can be a broken link, page, or any resource that does not exist on the server.

Basically: Page or Image Not Found.

Here’s an example of our 404 page:

Graticle 404 Page Example

Why is a 404 Error Important?

If people are landing on your website and they can’t find what they’re looking for, they’re gone. It’s that simple.

What could be worse than that?

You actually have the resource on your website, but it’s moved.

Because of your oversight, you’ve lost a potential lead or a sale. BAD for business.

How do I view 404 errors on my website?

An easy way to view and manage these errors are through a WordPress plugin called Redirection.

If you don’t have a WordPress website, you can follow these instructions for fixing them via your .htaccess

Redirection WordPress Plugin

After you’ve installed the plugin, you’ll need to wait an hour or longer to start seeing the 404 errors trickle in.

After you’ve waited long enough, you’re now ready to viewĀ those 404’s.

View the 404 Log in the Redirection pluginĀ with these instructions:

Redirection Instructions - Step 1 Redirection Instructions - Step 2

Your list will vary in length, but here is what you’re looking at:

404 Error Log

HowĀ do I fix a 404 error?

With the Redirection pluginĀ it’s simple.

Follow these steps below and you’ll be a 404 whizĀ in 3 minutes:

Redirection Instructions - Step 1 Redirection Instructions - Step 2

Redirection Instructions - Step 3

After you click “Add Redirect,” you’ll need to scroll to the bottom of the page to view the next screenshot:

Redirection Instructions - Step 4

Done.

Subscribe To Our Newsletter

Receive our latest blog posts, helpful design tips and advice about the latest trends in web design straight to your inbox.

More To Explore

Have a project you'd like to discuss?

Reach out today

Fill out the form, and we’ll contact you within one business day to discuss your project. You can also call us at (360) 450-3711 and we'll pick up.

Graticle delivered where their competitors didn't. I have now used them for multiple companies on both the website development side and for SEO with exemplary results. I highly recommend!
Joshua D.
Entrepreneur in Vancouver, WA

100's

Of customers served in 14+ years in business

Fill this out and we’ll be in touch quickly.

"*" indicates required fields

Send us a quick message

Count on a friendly reply from our crew within the next business day. Looking forward to chatting with you! šŸŽ‰