How to Deal With 404 Error Pages

The best way to handle pages with 404 issues is to either create a redirect or simply set up an error page to offer users alternative information. Doing either of these two is essential in order to prevent the sending of negative signals to both users and Google.

Google bots can try to access a resource that is no longer in existence but won't be able to get the exact status code 404 that a URL no longer exists. Users will also get a negative signal since they do not know why the URL is not working.

1. Redirect

When you have similar content on your site, you can redirect users to the URL that has similar content that was removed. This is, of course, the best solution, especially if you think you have what it takes to satisfy the user's need on the alternative page.

2. Create a 404 Error Page

When you create a 404 error page, your site visitors will get a message stating that the particular content is no longer available. You can provide them with an opportunity to visit other places on your site to get the desired content.

The first step towards creating a 404 error page is to correctly configure your server. To do this, click on the code "Error document 404/404.pho" in the .htacess.