How to Create and Customize a 404 Error Page for Your Website

How to Create and Customize a 404 Error Page for Your Website

By Michael Thompson

December 1, 2024 at 11:36 AM

Create a custom error page that matches your site's design when visitors encounter missing pages. The 404 page helps guide users who land on non-existent URLs while maintaining your brand's aesthetics.

View Your 404 Page:

  1. Open the Pages panel
  2. Scroll to System Pages
  3. Select 404 Page

The default system page includes:

  • Error explanation
  • Link to homepage
  • Search functionality
  • Standard message about incorrect URLs or moved/deleted content

Create a Custom 404 Page:

  1. Create a new page
  2. Add it to Hidden Navigation
  3. View current 404 page
  4. Select your custom page from dropdown menu

Best Practices for Custom Pages:

  • Include clear error messaging
  • Add homepage and search links
  • Match your site's design
  • Keep content helpful and concise

SEO Considerations:

  • Custom 404 pages may trigger "Soft 404" warnings in Google Search Console
  • This warning occurs because the page is indexable while stating it doesn't exist
  • Solutions:
    • Use System Default 404 page
    • Add noindex tags to custom 404 page

These steps ensure visitors encounter a branded, helpful error page while maintaining proper SEO practices. Your custom 404 page should guide users back to working content while preserving your site's professional appearance.

Note: The system default provides all essential functionality, but a custom page offers greater brand consistency and user experience control.

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