Category:Troubleshooting/How to Fix 404 Errors
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How to Fix 404 Errors
404 errors (“Page Not Found”) occur when a link points to a page that no longer exists or the URL is misspelled. These hurt user experience and SEO, so fixing them is important.
Common Causes
- URL slugs changed but no redirect set up
- Deleted pages still being linked internally or externally
- Typographical errors in links or image paths
- Linking to pages in the wrong case or with trailing slashes
- Removed or changed resources without updating references
Diagnostic Steps
1. Use Google Search Console or similar tools to find reported 404s. ([similarweb.com](https://www.similarweb.com/blog/marketing/seo/404-not-found/)) 2. Check your site’s internal links, menus, and footer for broken references. 3. Visit the URLs in a browser to confirm whether the 404 is live. 4. Review recently moved or renamed pages to see where old URLs might still be active.
How to Fix Them
- Correct misspelled URLs in links, menus, and resources across your site.
- If a page has moved, set up a 301 redirect from the old URL to the new one. ([brightseotools.com](https://brightseotools.com/post/how-to-fix-404-errors-for-better-seo))
- If using WordPress, resave permalink settings to regenerate rules. ([brightseotools.com](https://brightseotools.com/post/how-to-fix-404-errors-for-better-seo))
- Use a custom 404 page that includes navigation or search to help users find alternative content.
- Deactivate or correct external links (on partner sites or directories) that lead to 404s.
Preventing 404 Errors in Future
- Maintain a regular audit schedule for checking broken links.
- When renaming or moving content, always plan for redirects.
- Use tools or plugins that monitor for 404 errors and notify you.
- Avoid changing URL slugs unnecessarily.
When to Escalate
Submit a ticket via our Support Center if:
- You increased 404s after site redesign or plugin/theme update.
- Redirect chain errors or misconfigurations in server settings.
- Homepage, contact page, or critical pages are returning 404 status.
Subcategories
This category has the following 2 subcategories, out of 2 total.
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