While working with a virtual or dedicated server, errors may periodically occur. Don’t be afraid or panic – there is a solution! But first, let’s look at the definition of this 404 error . When browsing the web, the “404 not found” error is a common frustration for many service users. There can be many reasons, one of the most common is that, for example, the server cannot find the requested resource, such as a web page or file. Understanding the causes of this error and how to fix it can help both web users and website administrators navigate the digital world more effectively.

Causes of Error 404

As already mentioned, there may be several reasons. Below are the top 5 reasons that both experienced users and beginners may encounter.

  • Problems with server configuration. What does this mean? Incorrect server-side settings, such as incorrect rewrite rules or directory permissions, can result in 404 errors when attempting to access certain resources. It is very important to check directory/file permissions and general permissions before you start saving and updating on your site.
  • Broken/incorrect links. Websites often contain links to other pages or resources. If one of these links is broken or points to a non-existent URL, users will encounter a 404 error when trying to navigate to it.
  • Invalid URL. One of the most common causes of a 404 error is simply entering the wrong URL. Double checking the spelling and URL structure can often solve this problem.
  • Deleted or moved content. If the web page or file has been deleted or moved to a different location on the server, attempting to access the previous URL will result in a 404 error.
  • Expired content. Some websites have content that is only available for a limited time, such as promotional offers, event announcements, or if you have an e-commerce store and the item/product is no longer valid. Trying to access expired content may result in a 404 error.
  • Some external factors. It is also worth taking into account, perhaps, not very obvious factors. These may include server failures, network problems, or domain changes that may disrupt the availability of web content. This can all result in an HTTP 404 status code appearing on the page.

Possible Solutions for Error 404

  • Coming back to the fact that there may be an incorrect URL from here and advice – check the URL. It is important to make sure that the URL you are trying to access is spelled correctly and matches the structure of the website. Pay attention to uppercase and lowercase letters as URLs are extremely case sensitive. Any extra value may generate an error.
  • Check for redirects. If you think the content has been moved, check to see if there are any redirects pointing to the new location.
  • Use search engines. If you are unsure of the correct URL, try searching for the content using a search engine. Search engines could index the content and provide an alternative URL. Website administrators often set up redirects to ensure a smooth user experience.
  • Clearing the browser cache. Sometimes browsers cache outdated versions of websites, including pages with 404 errors. Clearing your browser cache can help ensure that you are accessing the most current version of a website.
  • Contact the website administrator. If you encounter a 404 error on a website that you do not manage, contact your website administrator or support team. They can investigate the problem and fix broken links or incorrect configurations.