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Understanding Error 404 - Not Found

Error 404 - Not Found is one of the most recognizable HTTP status codes. It indicates that the server could not find the requested resource. In other words, the page or file you’re looking for doesn’t exist at the specified URL. While this error is common, it can be frustrating for both users and website owners. Fortunately, it’s usually easy to diagnose and fix.

What Causes Error 404?​

There are several reasons why a 404 error might occur, especially on a LiteSpeed Web Server. Below are the most common causes:

1. Incorrect URL​

A simple typo in the URL is often the culprit behind a 404 error. Even a small mistake, like missing a character or using incorrect case, can result in the server being unable to locate the requested resource.

2. Missing or Deleted Files​

If the requested file (such as an HTML page, image, or script) has been moved, renamed, or deleted, the server will return a 404 error because it can no longer find the resource at the specified URL.

Broken links occur when URLs on your site point to pages or files that no longer exist. This can happen if the linked content has been removed or the URL structure has changed without updating the internal links.

4. Incorrect Redirection Rules​

Misconfigured redirection rules in your .htaccess file or within your CMS can lead to 404 errors. For example, if a redirect points to a non-existent page, users will encounter a 404 error.

5. DNS or Server Configuration Issues​

Though less common, DNS misconfigurations or server issues can also result in 404 errors. This is typically a problem when the domain name doesn’t resolve correctly to the server’s IP address or when virtual hosts are misconfigured.

Tips and Tricks to Resolve 404 Errors​

Double-Check the URL​

Ensure that the URL is correct. Pay close attention to spelling, case sensitivity, and path structure. If you suspect a typo, try accessing the URL with different variations.

Verify the File’s Location​

Check your server’s file structure to ensure the requested file exists in the correct directory. On a LiteSpeed server, your document root typically looks like this:

File Manager > /domains/userdomain.com/public_html/

Make sure the file is present and correctly named.

tip

Pro Tip: LiteSpeed is case-sensitive, so index.html is different from Index.html. Ensure the file names match exactly.

Regularly audit your site to identify and fix broken links. Tools like Google Search Console or online link checkers can help you find URLs that lead to 404 errors.

Review Redirection Rules​

If you’ve recently changed your site’s URL structure or moved content, review your .htaccess file and any redirection plugins to ensure they point to the correct locations. Be mindful of loops or incorrect redirects that could lead to 404 errors.

Clear Your Browser Cache​

Sometimes, outdated cache files can cause a 404 error. Clearing your browser cache and reloading the page can help resolve this issue.

Contact WebHostMost Support​

If you’re unable to resolve the 404 error, reach out to the WebHostMost support team for further assistance. We can help diagnose and resolve the issue from the server side.

Conclusion​

Error 404 - Not Found can be a minor inconvenience or a significant issue depending on the circumstances. By understanding its causes and following the tips provided, you can quickly identify and resolve 404 errors, ensuring a smoother experience for your website visitors.

By proactively managing 404 errors, you can maintain your site’s accessibility and reduce visitor frustration, helping to keep your website performing at its best.