Everybody has been there. Eager to access a certain product page or blog post, you click on a link, only to see the dreaded 404 error message: "Page not found."  A generic 404 page on your WordPress website may be bad for search engine optimization (SEO) and brand perception in addition to being annoying for users.

But do not be alarmed, fellow WordPress devotees!  With the help of this tutorial, you will be able to design a unique 404 page that keeps visitors interested and helps them get back on track while alerting them to the issue.

The Importance of a Custom 404 Page

A personalized 404 page fulfills several crucial functions:

Better User Experience: It's not really helpful to receive a generic 404 notice. A personalized page can provide alternatives such as searching the website or sending visitors to your homepage, as well as a user-friendly explanation of the issue and an apology for any difficulty caused.

Improved Brand Image: When something goes wrong, a well-designed 404 page preserves a consistent user experience and strengthens your brand identification.

Benefits for SEO: Relevant keywords and internal connections to other essential pages on your website may be included in custom 404 pages. By doing this, you may assist search engines better comprehend the structure of your website and raise your rating.

Creating Your Own 404 Page: Two Primary Methods

In WordPress, there are two main ways to create a personalized 404 page:

Theme File Editor: This method entails making changes to the pre-existing 404.php file from inside the code of your theme. Although it offers greater flexibility, some HTML and PHP knowledge is necessary.

Plugins: Without having to touch code, you can design a bespoke 404 page using a number of easy-to-use plugins. For individuals who are not as experienced with directly altering theme files, this is an excellent solution.

Method 1: Changing the 404.php file for the theme

Open the Editor for Themes:  To use the Theme File Editor, log in to your WordPress dashboard and select Appearance.

Find the 404.php file by expanding the folder and searching for the name of your theme on the right-hand side.  Find the "404.php" file and click on it to launch the editor.

Tailor the Code:  Depending on your theme, the default code will change, but generally speaking, there are parts for the header, content area, and footer.  Replace this code with the material you want, such as:

Informative Message: Express regret for any trouble caused and state that the page cannot be located.

Add a search bar to your website so visitors may seek for the material they're looking for.

Links to your homepage, most popular categories, and other significant areas of your website should be included in your navigation.

Components of Branding: By using your logo and trademark, you can preserve your brand identification.

Save Changes: To save your modifications, click the "Update File" button when you're satisfied with the alteration.

Method 2: Employing an Add-on

Without requiring you to modify code, a variety of paid and free plugins are available to assist you in creating a unique 404 page visually. Below is a typical workflow:

Select a reliable plugin to install and activate, such as "404 Redirects" or "Custom 404." Using the WordPress dashboard, install and activate the plugin.

Set Up the Plugin Settings: A settings page is specific to each plugin. Generally, you may alter the website's content and design components, as well as automatically reroute users to a certain page in the event that the requested page is not found.

Save and Preview: Before publishing your customized 404 page, you can check how it will appear using the preview feature that most plugins provide. Save your edits if you're satisfied.

Above and Above: Extra Pointers for an Outstanding 404 Page

Preserve a Uniform Look and Feel: Make sure the design of your 404 page complements the rest of your website.

Accept comedy (With Moderation): A little comedy may lift the spirits, but keep it civil.

Check Various Devices: Verify that your personalized 404 page functions properly on laptops, tablets, and cell phones.

Examine a Search Engine Optimized (SEO) Method: Incorporate pertinent keywords into your writing and provide links to important sections of your website. But put the user experience ahead of keyword stuffing.