How to Fix 404 Errors in WordPress: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

A “404 Not Found” error is one of the most common issues encountered by WordPress site owners and visitors. These errors can hurt user experience, reduce SEO rankings, and negatively impact traffic. This guide will walk you through the causes of 404 errors in WordPress and provide actionable solutions to fix them effectively.

What Are 404 Errors?

A 404 error occurs when a user tries to access a page on your site that doesn’t exist. This can happen for several reasons:

1. Broken Links: Links pointing to non-existent pages.
2. Permalink Issues: Incorrect or outdated URL structures.
3. Deleted Content: Pages or posts removed without proper redirection.
4. Server Configuration Issues: Misconfigured .htaccess file or server settings.

Why Fixing 404 Errors is Important

Key Impacts:

1. Improved User Experience: Visitors can navigate your site without frustration.
2. SEO Benefits: Search engines penalize sites with excessive 404 errors.
3. Retain Traffic: Reduce bounce rates caused by inaccessible content.

How to Identify 404 Errors

Tools to Use:

1. Google Search Console:
   • Go to Coverage > Not Found (404) to see error reports.
2. Broken Link Checker Plugin:
   • Scan your WordPress site for broken links.
3. Online Tools:
   • Use tools like Screaming Frog SEO Spider or Dead Link Checker for comprehensive analysis.

Methods to Fix 404 Errors in WordPress

1. Update Permalinks

Incorrect or outdated permalink settings are a common cause of 404 errors.

Steps:

1. Go to Settings > Permalinks in your WordPress dashboard.
2. Select your desired permalink structure (e.g., “Post Name”).
3. Click Save Changes to regenerate the .htaccess file.

2. Redirect Broken Links

Use 301 redirects to send users from the broken link to a valid page.

Plugin Recommendation:

• Redirection Plugin

Example Setup:

1. Install and activate the Redirection plugin.
2. Go to Tools > Redirection.
3. Add the old URL in the “Source URL” field and the new URL in the “Target URL” field.
4. Save the redirection.

3. Restore Deleted Content

If the content is still relevant:

1. Check your Trash in WordPress.
2. Restore the deleted post or page.

If the content is no longer relevant:

1. Redirect the URL to related content or the homepage.

4. Fix Broken Links

Steps:

1. Install the Broken Link Checker plugin.
2. Navigate to Tools > Broken Links.
3. Update or remove broken links as needed.

5. Manually Edit the .htaccess File

For advanced users, manually add redirects or fix configuration issues in the .htaccess file.

Example:

Redirect 301 /old-page https://example.com/new-page

1. Access the .htaccess file via FTP or your hosting control panel.
2. Add the necessary redirects.
3. Save the file and test the changes.

6. Update Internal Links

Ensure internal links in your content point to valid URLs:

1. Use a plugin like Yoast SEO to analyze internal links.
2. Update links in your posts, pages, and navigation menus.

Preventing Future 404 Errors

1. Use a Sitemap

Generate and submit an XML sitemap to search engines using plugins like Yoast SEO or Rank Math.

2. Monitor Regularly

Set up automated monitoring for broken links using plugins or online tools.

3. Use Proper Redirections

Redirect deleted or moved content promptly to avoid broken links.

4. Test Changes

Whenever you update permalinks, add new pages, or delete content, test the changes to ensure no errors occur.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

1. Permalink Structure Not Working

• Cause: Corrupted .htaccess file.
• Solution: Regenerate permalinks by saving settings under Settings > Permalinks.

2. Plugins Causing 404 Errors

• Cause: Plugin conflicts.
• Solution: Deactivate plugins one by one to identify the culprit.

3. Server Configuration Issues

• Cause: Incorrect server settings.
• Solution: Contact your hosting provider to verify the configuration.

Recommended Plugins and Tools

1. Redirection: Manage redirects easily.
2. Broken Link Checker: Identify and fix broken links.
3. Yoast SEO: Optimize internal links and create sitemaps.
4. Google Search Console: Monitor and fix coverage issues.
5. Screaming Frog SEO Spider: Comprehensive site audits.

Conclusion

Fixing 404 errors is crucial for maintaining a high-performing WordPress site. By identifying the root causes and implementing the solutions in this guide, you can ensure a smooth user experience, protect your SEO rankings, and retain valuable traffic. Regular monitoring and proactive measures will keep your site error-free and optimized for success.