An Introduction to 404 Error Pages
Wordpress 404 Page Plugin
A 404 error page alerts visitors to a missing page or incorrect URL. Many websites use the default page provided by their theme, but 404 error pages can also be customized to improve User Experience (UX).
Most commonly, an error page will note the issue and provide alternative options for the user to choose from: for example, a Return to the Home Page link, related content, or a Search box.
WordPress makes it really simple to create your basic 404 page. Essentially, it routes all pages that aren’t found to a 404.php file in your theme directory. So, if you create a file called 404.php, you’ve already set up your 404 page. Most themes come with a 404.php file included, with some basic information to start off with.
- Creating a WordPress 404 page If your theme doesn’t include a 404.php file, there are two easy ways to create one: 1. Copy the 404.php from another theme, such as the WordPress Twenty Seventeen theme (/wp-content/themes/twentyseventeen/404.php) into the directory of your current theme.
- Follow the steps below to solve the 404 error or Page not found error from your cPanel. Login to your cPanel or FTP and go to the root directory of your website. If you are logged in to cPanel, go to File Manager » publichtml » your websites root directory.
Wordpress 404 Page Redirect To Homepage
A good 404 error page should contain a few essential elements. These include a link or navigation menu, an on-brand apology or explanation, and a Search box.
For example, Cloud Sigma opted for a quirky explanation and an easy-to-find Back to Homepage button. This helps to lessen the frustration, while also enabling the user to return to the main site with minimal interruption.
Repair Pal presents another good example of a well-implemented 404 error page. They opted to stick with their default theme — keeping the navigation menu intact — while also providing users with a way to immediately interact with the page. For example, visitors can Get an Estimate or Troubleshoot Your Car.
Wordpress 404 Page Settings
As you can see, creating a functional page is a useful way of mitigating the effects of a 404 error. They also ensure your website has an air of professionalism, despite an error being present.