404 Errors and Broken Links: 6 Practical Website Checks

The six points in the video

This is a silent video. The headings, explanations and labels below reproduce the information on screen.

1. 1

   Step 1: Understand the response

   0:18

   A 404 means the server could not find that resource.

   On-screen labels: Requested address; Resource not found; HTTP response.

2. 2

   Step 2: Check the link first

   0:30

   A typing mistake or old address may be the cause.

   On-screen labels: Spelling; Old bookmarks; Changed page address.

3. 3

   Step 3: Fix links you control

   0:42

   Update menus and page links to the correct destination.

   On-screen labels: Navigation menu; Page content; Correct URL.

4. 4

   Step 4: Redirect relevant replacements

   0:54

   A moved page may need a redirect to its proper successor.

   On-screen labels: Old useful address; Matching replacement; Relevant redirect.

5. 5

   Step 5: Keep the missing-page screen useful

   1:06

   Explain the problem and offer a few clear routes.

   On-screen labels: Plain explanation; Main navigation; Helpful contact option.

6. 6

   Step 6: Return the right status

   1:18

   A page saying missing should not pretend everything is OK.

   On-screen labels: Real 404 response; Useful page design; Test the result.

Common questions

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