

what are 404 error pages and why are they important?

flyers, business cards etc) to make sure the URL is legible and therefore reduce the possibility of errors. For example, if a page is for members only, add a ‘member login required’ note next to the link.ĥ) When creating new pages for specific events, products or campaigns, make sure to use simple URLs so they’re easier for users to type in and find – for example, /gala2017 is better than /gala-exciting-venue-tickets-2017-q476xafe.įinally, whilst you can’t prevent people mistyping your general web address into their browser, it’s also worth checking any printed materials where you give out your web address (eg. If using WordPress, there are a number of plugins you can use to set up 301 redirects.Ĥ) Make restricted access pages clear so that users are prepared. The same thing applies to any links you include in newsletters, emails or on social media.ģ) If you change the URLs for your content, make sure to set-up 301 redirects, which will automatically redirect anyone who clicks on the old link to the new page. It’s also worth scheduling in a reminder every few months to check again and keep links up-to-date.Ģ) Test links you include in blogs or on new webpages to ensure they work before you publish the page.
SCAN AND FIX BROKEN LINKS WORDPRESS UPDATE
You can then go to the relevant pages and update or remove any broken links. Here are a few key ways you can reduce broken links on your website:ġ) Use a link checker (such as this one) to find out if you have broken links. Secondly, Google and other search engines don’t like broken links – so the more you have, the more your site will be pushed down the search rankings. Firstly, it ruins the user experience when links are not available, and disgruntled users may choose to exit your site without engaging fully or completing transactions. why are broken links a problem?īroken links disadvantage your site in two ways.
SCAN AND FIX BROKEN LINKS WORDPRESS PASSWORD
Links may be broken for a variety of reasons, including the URL being mistyped, the webpage no longer being online, the page’s URL having changed, or the linked page having restricted access (such as by being behind a password or firewall). If a user types in or clicks on the link, they will be directed to a 404 page (find out more below) or error message. A broken link is a link to a webpage that doesn’t work.
