Custom 404 Error Pages With Google

Peter Devereaux
by Peter Devereaux 19 Aug, 2008
Custom 404 Error Pages With Google

It happens to the best of us - 404 errors. Whether it's because of a mistyped URL, broken or truncated link within an email or because of content that has been moved, end-users often see these error pages - but there are ways to help visitors get the most from this experience.

Google has added a section called "Enhance 404 pages" to its Webmaster Tools service. The embeddable widget can be included in a custom 404 page to help visitors find what they are looking for by providing suggestions based on the incorrect URL. For example, say a user visits a link which for whatever reason gets cut off and a 404 page appears. Add the Custom 404 Error Page widget however and the visitor would see the following:




Google will not only attempt to correct the URL but suggest a link to the parent subdirectory, a sitemap webpage and provide a site search query suggestion and search box. If you're interested, simply sign into Webmaster Tools and generate a JavaScript snippet which can be copy and pasted into your existing 404 page code.

Peter Devereaux
Peter Devereaux
As the Editor-in-Chief of Website Magazine and President of Website Services, Peter has established himself as a prominent figure in the digital marketing industry. With a wealth of experience and knowledge, Peter has been a driving force in shaping the landscape of digital marketing. His leadership in creating innovative and targeted marketing campaigns has helped numerous businesses achieve their revenue growth goals. Under his direction, Website Magazine has become a trusted source of information and insights for digital marketers worldwide. As President of Website Services, Peter oversees a team of talented professionals who specialize in SEO/SEM, email marketing, social media, and digital advertising. Through his hands-on approach, he ensures that his team delivers exceptional results to their clients. With a passion for digital marketing, Peter is committed to staying up-to-date with the latest industry trends and technologies, making him a sought-after thought leader in the field.