how to redirect or fix 404 error pages in WordPress websites

Eliminate 404 Error Pages on Your WordPress with These Easy StepsEliminate 404 Error Pages on Your WordPress with These Easy Steps

To redirect or fix 404 error pages in WordPress, follow these steps:

1. Identify 404 error pages:
   First, you need to identify the broken links or pages that are causing 404 errors. You can use tools like Google Search Console, Broken Link Checker plugin for WordPress, or online services like Ahrefs, Semrush, Get free seo audit or Screaming Frog.
2. Create a custom 404 page:
   Create a helpful custom 404 error page that provides users with navigation options to visit other sections of your website. To create a custom 404 page, follow these steps: a. In your WordPress theme folder (/wp-content/themes/your-theme/), create a new file named ‘404.php’ if it doesn’t already exist.
   b. Customize the 404.php file content with relevant text, images, or links.
   c. Save the file and upload it back to your theme folder.
3. Install a redirection plugin:
   Install a redirection plugin such as Redirection, Simple 301 Redirects or All In One SEO to help you easily manage 301 redirects.
4. Set up 301 redirects:
   Redirect the 404 error pages to relevant pages on your website using any of the above-mentioned plugins. Follow these steps: a. Go to the WordPress dashboard.
   b. Navigate to the settings or options of the installed redirection plugin.
   c. Add a new redirect rule, specifying the old (404 error) URL and the new target URL you want users to be redirected to.
   d. Save the changes, and test the redirect by visiting the old URL to see if it redirects to the new one.
5. Update your internal links:
   Update any internal links on your website that point to the old (404 error) URL to avoid sending visitors to broken pages. Use the Broken Link Checker plugin to locate and fix any broken links within your WordPress site.
6. Monitor 404 errors and redirects:
   Regularly check Google Search Console and the logs provided by the redirection plugin to monitor and identify any new 404 errors. Address them promptly to maintain good website health.

By following these steps, you can effectively redirect 404 error pages in WordPress and improve the overall user experience on your website.