The 404 or Not Found error message is an HTTP standard response code indicating that the client was able to communicate with the server, but the server could not find what was requested. 404 errors should not be confused with “server not found” or similar errors, in which a connection to the destination server could not be made at all. A 404 error indicates that the requested resource may be available again in the future. Wikipedia

What does all of that mean? Simple, the page that you are trying to access does not exist. A few reasons why this can happen.

• The end user typed in a wrong address in the URL bar
• The page was deleted, renamed, or moved.
• Google/Search Engines still has these pages listed in search results.

There are two rules of thought on creating custom 404 error pages. First from the users point of view.  A custom 404 error gives them the same layout of your website so they are more likely to stay on your website and continue browsing. For the website owner, than could mean a sale just for them staying on your website. The second reason is for Search Engine Optimization (SEO). The better your site flows without broken links will help in SERPs. Search BOTs can smoothly search your site without being interrupted with broken links.

Ok, so now you are sold on a custom 404 error page, so now you may be wondering what do you put on a custom error page. First off this custom 404 page should have the same look and feel as the rest of your site. Logo, menu, and website colors should all be located at the same location as they are on other pages on your website. Also a search box is a nice touch for users to try and search again for content that is on your website. The rest of the text is up to you. Some custom 404 errors are simple while others are humorous.

To get an idea you can view our custom 404 error page here.

Now you can see how a custom 404 error page is beneficial for your website. Contact us today if you need help with a custom 404 error page.