How To Fix Error 404 Page Not Found In WordPress

Table of Contents

Introduction.

Encountering a 404 Page Not Found error on your WordPress website can be frustrating for both you as the website owner and your visitors.

The 404 error occurs when a requested page or resource is not found on the server. This could happen due to various reasons, such as incorrect permalinks, deleted pages, or broken links.

The good news is that fixing the 404 error in WordPress is a relatively straightforward process, and in this article, we will guide you through the steps to troubleshoot and resolve this issue.

A 404 error can negatively impact the user experience, as it disrupts the seamless navigation of your website.

It can also have implications for your search engine rankings if search engines consistently encounter broken links or missing pages.

Therefore, it’s crucial to address and fix the 404 error promptly to ensure a smooth browsing experience for your visitors and maintain the integrity of your WordPress site.

By following the methods outlined in this article, you will learn how to identify the causes of the 404 error and implement effective solutions to resolve it.

Whether it’s fixing broken links, updating permalinks, or utilizing redirect techniques, we’ll provide you with the necessary guidance to get your WordPress website back on track and eliminate those frustrating 404 errors. Let’s dive in and learn how to fix the Error 404 Page Not Found in WordPress.

How Do I Fix Error 404 Page Not Found In WordPress?

A 404 error indicates that the requested page or resource could not be found on the server. This error can occur due to various reasons, such as broken links, deleted pages, or incorrect URL configurations.

Fortunately, fixing the 404 error in WordPress is possible, and in this article, we will guide you through the steps to troubleshoot and resolve this issue.

1. Check for Typos and Broken Links.

One common cause of the 404 error is a typo in the URL or broken links within your website. Start by verifying that the URL is entered correctly in the browser’s address bar.

If you find any typos, correct them and try accessing the page again. Additionally, inspect internal and external links on your website and update or remove any broken links.

2. Reset Permalinks.

Incorrect permalink settings can lead to a 404 error. To reset permalinks in WordPress, go to “Settings” > “Permalinks” in your WordPress dashboard.

Without making any changes, click the “Save Changes” button. This action refreshes the permalink structure and may resolve the 404 error caused by incorrect URL configurations.

3. Create a Custom 404 Page.

Instead of displaying a generic error message, consider creating a custom 404 page to provide a better user experience.

You can design a custom page that suggests alternative content, includes a search bar, or directs users back to the homepage.

To create a custom 404 page, create a new WordPress page, add relevant content, and then go to “Settings” > “Reading” and select the created page under “404 Page.”

4. Implement Redirects.

If a page has been permanently removed or the URL has changed, implementing redirects can help resolve the 404 error and ensure a smooth user experience.

WordPress offers plugins like “Redirection” or “Simple 301 Redirects” that allow you to set up redirects easily.

Simply enter the old URL and the new destination, and the plugin will automatically redirect users from the old URL to the new one.

5. Restore Deleted Pages.

If a 404 error occurs due to a deleted page, restoring the page from a backup can resolve the issue. Regularly backing up your WordPress website ensures that you can easily restore deleted pages and prevent 404 errors caused by missing content.

6. Check for Server Issues.

In some cases, the 404 error may be caused by server-related issues. Contact your hosting provider to ensure there are no server misconfigurations or connectivity problems. They can help investigate the issue and provide necessary solutions.

7. Use a Broken Link Checker Plugin.

To proactively identify and fix broken links on your WordPress website, consider using a broken link checker plugin.

These plugins scan your website for broken links and provide a report of the URLs that need attention. Popular options include “Broken Link Checker” and “WP 404 Auto Redirect to Similar Post.”

Conclusion.

By following these steps, you can effectively troubleshoot and fix the Error 404 Page Not Found in WordPress.

Regularly monitoring your website, updating permalinks, and addressing broken links will help maintain a seamless user experience and improve your website’s overall performance.

Remember, providing a smooth browsing experience for your visitors is essential for engagement, user satisfaction, and the success of your WordPress website.