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What is error 404?
The 404 or Not Found error message is an HTTP standard response code indicating that the client was able to communicate with the server but either the server could not find what was requested, or it was configured not to fulfill the request and did not reveal the reason why.
404 errors should not be confused with "server not found" or similar errors, in which a connection to the destination server could not be made at all.
Reasons behind 404 error?
- updates made by web master over file names or links in the site , these files might be recorded in bookmarks or search engines and have not been updated therefore causing 404 error when user click on these out-of-date links.
- A typo when the user writes a url in the address bar , this will cause a 404 error because the web server cannot fullfil the request and find the requested file.
Why we design custom 404 page?
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Most web servers provide default 404 handling error , but these default pages are usuallay confusing for users because they display the error in a technical way most users cannot understand which may result most probably in navigating away from the site , thats why building customized 404 error page telling the normal user what is the problem with attractive way is the magical solution , and these are examples of the default 404 pages on the most common web servers
The default 404 error page on apache
The default 404 error page on IIS
- Designing customized 404 error page gives your site users a feeling that you made an effort to provide them with information , that will produce a very good impression and keep users to navigate in your site even if they encounter 404 error.
What are the main characteristics of 404 pages?
- A link to the main site or site map should be included in 404 error page so it can ensure the user can go back somewhere in the site.
- It is preferable to put a site search form inside the 404 page to help the user search for what he wants inside the site.
- It is preferable to put a contact form inside the 404 page in order to contact the site master informing about any broken links or 404 errors.
- The 404 page should be direct and simple , its main aspect is to tell the user what happend and why , so don't use complex or crowded design distracting the user from the main 404 page idea.
How to apply custom 404 page in my site?
coming soon....