The 404 not found error is an HTTP status code that indicates that the server could not find the requested resource. This error typically occurs when a user tries to access a Web page or file that does not exist on the server. The error can be the result of an incorrectly entered URL, a moved or deleted file, or a broken link on the Web site.
For example, if a visitor follows a link to an article that has been deleted or moved without a redirect set up, the server will return a 404 Not Found error.This error serves as feedback that the attempted path did not lead to a valid web page.
Monitoring and managing 404 errors is important for website maintenance and user experience. Regularly fixing broken links, implementing redirects for displaced content, and creating a helpful 404 error page can improve site navigation and keep users engaged even when they've reached a dead end.