Encountering a 404 error on your WordPress website can be frustrating, but it’s usually a solvable issue. A 404 error means that the web server couldn’t find the page you’re trying to access. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you diagnose and solve the 404 error on your WordPress website:
Refresh the Page and Clear Cache:
Sometimes, a 404 error might be temporary. Start by refreshing the page. If that doesn’t work, clear your browser cache and cookies, as cached data might be causing the issue.
Check the URL:
Make sure you’re entering the correct URL. Even a small typo can result in a 404 error. Also, ensure the URL is pointing to a valid page or post.
Check Permalinks:
WordPress uses “permalinks” to structure URLs. If your permalinks are misconfigured, it can lead to 404 errors. To check and update permalinks, go to “Settings” > “Permalinks” in your WordPress dashboard. Select a different permalink structure, save, and then revert back to your preferred structure. This can sometimes refresh the permalink settings.
Check .htaccess File:
Your website’s .htaccess file controls how URLs are rewritten. If this file is corrupted or incorrectly configured, it can cause 404 errors. You can regenerate the .htaccess file by going to “Settings” > “Permalinks” and saving your permalink settings again.
Update Links and References:
If you recently changed your website’s structure, updated URLs, or moved pages, ensure that internal and external links are updated accordingly. Incorrect links can lead to 404 errors.
Re-save Permalinks for Custom Post Types:
If you’re using custom post types or plugins that create custom URLs, visit their settings and re-save the permalink settings. This can refresh the URL structure for those post types
Check for Plugin or Theme Conflicts:
Deactivate all plugins and switch to a default WordPress theme (like Twenty Twenty-One). If the 404 error disappears, it means a plugin or your theme might be causing the issue. Activate plugins and your theme one by one to identify the culprit.
Check Server Configuration:
Sometimes, server misconfigurations can cause 404 errors. Contact your web hosting provider to check if there are any issues on the server side.
Regenerate Rewrites and Flush Rewrite Rules:
You can use plugins like “Regenerate Permalinks” to regenerate rewrite rules. This can sometimes fix 404 errors related to rewrite rules.
Check for Missing Files or Pages:
If you’re sure that the URL should be valid and you’re still getting a 404 error, check if the file or page actually exists on your server. Sometimes, files can be missing due to accidental deletions or migration issues.
Check for Caching Plugins:
If you’re sure that the URL should be valid and you’re still getting a 404 error, check if the file or page actually exists on your server. Sometimes, files can be missing due to accidental deletions or migration issues.
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