Quick Summary
Error 404 means that the server cannot find the requested resource, such as a webpage or file. This usually happens when the URL is mistyped or the page has been moved or deleted.
Common Causes
- Mistyped URL: The most common cause is simply typing the URL incorrectly. Even a small typo can lead to a 404 error.
- Broken Link: The page you're trying to access may have been moved or deleted, resulting in a broken link. This is common when websites are reorganized, or content is removed.
- Server Error: Though less common, there is always the possibility of a misconfiguration on the remote server. This is not an issue that the client-side user has control over.
- Incorrect Path: The URL may point to a location on the server that does not exist or is constructed improperly.
Step-by-Step Fixes
Method 1: Double-check the URL
Step 1: Carefully review the URL in the address bar.
Step 2: Ensure there are no typos or extra characters.
Step 3: If you copied the URL, paste it into a text editor to check for any hidden spaces or characters.
Method 2: Navigate to the Homepage
Step 1: Instead of directly accessing the page, try navigating to the website's homepage.
Step 2: From the homepage, use the website's navigation or search function to find the page you're looking for.
Method 3: Use a Search Engine
Step 1: Open your preferred search engine (e.g., Google, Bing).
Step 2: Search for the page you're trying to access by using keywords related to the content.
Step 3: If the page exists and has been indexed, it should appear in the search results.
Method 4: Clear Browser Cache and Cookies
Step 1: Clear your browser's cache and cookies. Instructions vary depending on the browser (Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge). Typically this can be done in your browser's settings under "Privacy" or "History".
Step 2: Restart your browser and try accessing the page again.
Method 5: Contact Website Support
Step 1: If none of the above methods work, the page may no longer exist or the website may be experiencing technical issues.
Step 2: Look for a 'Contact Us' or 'Support' link on the website's homepage.
Step 3: Contact the website's support team and explain the issue you're experiencing. Provide them with the URL you were trying to access.