Webpages are typically requested or called up through the server by their URL. In the event that a url is called and there is no page available, it will result in a “not found” or 404 error. This is problematic for two reasons:
- If an enduser ends up at a 404 on your site they may get confused and leave your site.
- Google likes URL’s and links that actually link somewhere. Overtime google may stop indexing the page the URL is pointing to.
How do you know if you have a 404 problem?
If you have webmaster tools, it will actually tell you what pages are resulting in a 404 and if you don’t, it’s actually pretty simple. Let’s say your domain name is www.dogdayafternoon.com, just add any obscure word or phrase after your domain like www.dogdayafternoon.com/i-fly-kites. It will most likely see something along the lines of page not found or 404 error.
How do solve this problem?
First, make sure your link’s are pointing to the right URL’s. Secondly, you want to create a 404 error page like our client whocanisue.com. Some site’s get creative and funny. It’s recommended that you have links on your 404 page that act almost as a sitemap to your most important pages, that way your enduser doesn’t cut and run, but knows that you understand there is a problem and they can start over or be guided through another path.
Digital Footprint can help you with any of your Search Engine Optimization needs. Contact us today.
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