An In-Depth Analysis of 404 Pages for Large Websites: Optimal Settings
Recently, while diagnosing many websites, I've noticed a common issue: although the websites themselves are meticulously designed, their 404 pages are often neglected. This oversight is detrimental from both user and search engine perspectives, potentially reducing traffic and even affecting the website's authority. This is a problem that needs to be addressed. Today, let's learn how to optimize 404 pages with Qingyuan SEO.
I. What Is a 404 Page?
When a user accesses a non-existent page, the server should return a 404 status code. If a webmaster hasn't customized the 404 page, the server will automatically return a default page, such as the following examples. However, it's important to note that some open-source programs may already have a default 404 page, but have you checked it? Is it user-friendly? Is it search engine-friendly? Does it effectively guide users? If you're unsure, let's continue.
SEO-404 Error
SEO-404 Error 2
SEO-404 Error 2
Users or search engine spiders will either continue browsing or stop based on the guidance provided by the 404 page. The examples above would definitely lead to termination of the visit. So, how can we create a 404 page that effectively guides users to continue browsing?
II. The Purpose of 404 Page Settings
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Avoid Dead Ends for Spiders: Efficiently utilize spider resources by preventing them from hitting dead ends.
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Reduce User Bounce Rate: Minimize the likelihood of users leaving the site directly, thereby reducing the bounce rate.
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Enhance User Experience: A well-designed 404 page can make users feel more comfortable and satisfied.
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Minimize Errors and Blank Pages: Improve the website's credibility by reducing errors and blank pages.
III. Learning from Industry Leaders' 404 Pages
If we don't know how to design a good 404 page, we should learn from the best (imitation is a form of flattery).
1. Tencent QQ - 404 Page
Tencent's approach is to create a page similar to the homepage. Whether through automatic redirection or by clicking "Return to Tencent Homepage," users are directed to a custom 404 page: http://www.qq.com/?pgv_ref=404. However, it does not redirect to the actual homepage.
2. Sina - 404 Page
Sina's approach is to inform users of the error and then redirect them to a navigation page after 5 seconds. This page is essentially a sitemap, allowing users and spiders to choose their next steps. It's simple and clear.
3. Baidu - 404 Page
Baidu's 404 page is clean and straightforward. At the top, there are landmarks for Baidu products and a functional navigation menu for users. Clicking "More from Baidu" takes you to the full site map, allowing you to browse freely (both for users and spiders). Clicking "Feedback to Us" leads to a feedback form, enhancing user experience.
4. Webmaster Home - 404 Page
Webmaster Home is a comprehensive example:
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It does not redirect to the homepage.
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It provides clear guidance for returning to the homepage or the previous page.
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It includes a website navigation menu for users.
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It also includes a sitemap.
This design gives users a sense of clarity and direction.
Note: One common mistake to avoid is setting up a countdown that redirects users back to the homepage. This can mislead search engine spiders into thinking that the homepage is the 404 page, leading to the perception of duplicate pages, which is not user-friendly.
IV. How to Design a 404 Page?
After observing the examples from leading websites, you might already have some ideas. Let's see if they align with mine.
Three Key Dimensions:
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Let Users Know Where They Are: Ensure users understand they are still within the website (keep the page logo, website name, and design style consistent with the homepage).
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Inform Users of the Issue: Clearly indicate that the page they tried to access does not exist. You can even specify whether the page was deleted, the URL was entered incorrectly, or it has been moved to a new address.
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Guide Users on What to Do Next: Provide a sitemap, navigation menu, or search box to help users find what they need.
V. How to Set Up a 404 Page?
Here are two methods; feel free to explore more on your own.
Prerequisites:
Upload the images and resources needed for the 404 page to the FTP server for easy access.
1. Virtual Host Setup
Log in to your virtual host control panel and find the relevant 404 page settings. Simply configure it there.
404 Page - Virtual Host Setup
2. Backend Template Call
For open-source programs like WordPress, which have a source code section in the backend, you can directly copy and paste the code and save it.
404 Page - Code Setup
Setting up a 404 page is straightforward, but designing it is an art. While search engines are a consideration, the focus here is primarily on the user experience. The designs mentioned above consider multiple aspects from the user's perspective. Regardless of the size of the website, I believe it is essential to set up a 404 page. It benefits the website and helps users. Why not do it?
That's the introduction to the optimal settings for 404 pages from large websites. I hope it helps!
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