Have you ever clicked on a link, only to be met with a frustrating “404 Page Not Found” message? You’re not alone. For bloggers, creators, and WordPress users, encountering 404 errors is a common challenge. These broken links not only disrupt the experience for your visitors but can also have a negative impact on your site’s SEO performance, making it harder for Google and other search engines to crawl your content effectively.
At first glance, a 404 error might seem harmless—after all, it’s just a missing page, right? But even a few broken links on your site can gradually harm your reputation, reduce trust with your audience, and prevent your carefully crafted content from reaching its full potential. Imagine a visitor coming to your blog excited to read your latest tutorial, only to be stopped by a dead link. Chances are, they’ll leave and may never return. From a search engine’s perspective, multiple 404s can waste your crawl budget, meaning Googlebot spends time on non-existent pages instead of indexing your important content.
The good news is that 404 errors are fixable, and managing them doesn’t require advanced technical knowledge. Whether you’re a beginner blogger, a creator sharing tutorials, or someone running a WordPress site without much coding experience, you can monitor, identify, and resolve broken links efficiently. Tools like Rank Math, Yoast SEO, or even dedicated plugins like Redirection and Broken Link Checker can make this process surprisingly simple.
In this guide, we will take a comprehensive, step-by-step approach to understanding 404 errors in WordPress. You’ll learn:
- What 404 errors are and why they happen
- How they affect your website’s SEO and user experience
- How to detect and fix them using plugins or manual methods
- Best practices to prevent broken links in the future
By the end of this post, you’ll not only know how to fix 404 errors WordPress sites commonly face, but you’ll also gain the confidence to keep your site healthy, improve SEO, and provide a seamless experience for your visitors.
Whether you’re using Rank Math, Yoast, or no SEO plugin at all, this guide will give you the tools and knowledge to tackle 404 errors like a pro—without feeling overwhelmed by technical jargon.
- 1. What Are 404 Errors in WordPress?
- 2. Why 404 Errors Matter for SEO and UX
- 3. Common Causes of 404 Errors
- 4. How to Detect 404 Errors
- 5. Fixing 404 Errors in WordPress
- Why Fixing 404 Errors Matters
- 1. Fixing 404 Errors Using Rank Math SEO Plugin
- 2. Fixing 404 Errors Using Yoast SEO Plugin
- 3. Fixing 404 Errors Without an SEO Plugin
- 4. Fixing 404s Caused by Changed Permalink Structures
- 5. Fixing Plugin or Theme Asset 404 Errors
- Comparison Table: 404 Fixing Methods
- 6. Verify That Redirects Are Working
- 6. How to Prevent 404 Errors in WordPress (Proactive Maintenance Guide)
- 1. Plan and Maintain a Consistent URL Structure
- 2. Avoid Deleting or Renaming Published Content
- 3. Regularly Monitor Broken Links
- 4. Use a Custom 404 Page to Retain Visitors
- 5. Keep Plugins and Themes Updated
- 6. Create Redirect Rules for Common Typos and Old URLs
- 7. Regularly Audit Your Internal Links
- 8. Avoid Excessive URL Parameters or Special Characters
- 9. Monitor Server and Hosting Health
- 10. Educate Contributors and Team Members
- Quick Reference: 404 Prevention Checklist
- 7. Managing 404s: Rank Math vs Yoast vs No SEO Plugin (Which Is Best?)
- 8. Conclusion
- 9. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About 404 Errors in WordPress
1. What Are 404 Errors in WordPress?
A 404 error is a standard HTTP status code that appears when someone tries to access a page that doesn’t exist on your website. In simple terms, it’s your site’s way of saying: “Oops! We can’t find the page you’re looking for.”
For WordPress users, 404 errors are very common. They can appear for many reasons, from accidentally deleting a post to having a link with a typo. Even though a 404 error might seem harmless at first, it can significantly impact your user experience and SEO performance if not addressed.
How 404 Errors Happen in WordPress
Here are the most common ways 404 errors can appear on a WordPress site:
- Deleted Pages or Posts
If you remove a blog post or page without redirecting it to another relevant page, anyone who tries to access the old URL will land on a 404 page. - Changed URLs or Permalinks
WordPress allows you to customize your URL structure (permalinks). If you change a post’s URL without creating a redirect, old links will break and result in a 404 error. - Typos in Internal or External Links
Even a single wrong character in a link can cause a 404 error. This is especially common when manually inserting URLs into your posts or when other websites link to you incorrectly. - Bot or Hacker Probes
Sometimes, 404 errors are generated when bots or malicious users try to access files that don’t exist, like/wp-admin/setup-config.phpor.envfiles. These are usually harmless but can clutter your 404 logs. - Plugin or Theme Asset Errors
Certain plugins or themes generate CSS, JS, or image files dynamically. If these files are deleted, moved, or not properly generated, WordPress may return a 404 when the page tries to load them. For example, some page builders or UAG/Spectra plugin assets may generate missing CSS files that show up as 404 errors.
Why 404 Errors Matter
While a single 404 error won’t destroy your SEO, having many broken pages can be problematic:
- Visitor Frustration: A user clicking a dead link may leave your site immediately.
- Reduced Trust: Repeated 404 errors make your site appear unprofessional.
- SEO Impact: Search engines like Google may waste time crawling pages that don’t exist, which can slow down indexing of your important pages.
Example Analogy
Think of your website as a library. Every page is a book on a shelf. A 404 error is like a visitor asking for a book that was removed or misplaced. If visitors keep encountering missing books, they may leave, and the librarian (Google) will struggle to catalog the remaining books properly.
Custom 404 Pages in WordPress
WordPress allows you to create custom 404 pages. These are special pages that appear whenever someone lands on a missing page. A well-designed 404 page can:
- Guide users back to your homepage or blog
- Offer a search bar to find other content
- Reduce bounce rates and improve user experience
By understanding what 404 errors are and why they occur, you’re better prepared to detect, fix, and prevent them—which we’ll cover in the following sections.
2. Why 404 Errors Matter for SEO and UX
404 errors may seem like a small issue, but they can have big consequences for your website, especially if you’re a blogger, creator, or WordPress beginner. Understanding why these errors matter helps you take proactive steps to fix and prevent them.
Impact on User Experience (UX)
Your visitors are the most important people on your site. A 404 page can frustrate them, confuse them, or even drive them away. Consider these points:
- Broken Navigation: Imagine a reader trying to access a tutorial from your menu, but the link leads to a 404 page. They’re likely to leave immediately instead of searching for the content.
- Loss of Trust: Frequent broken links make your website appear unprofessional. Visitors may question the quality of your content if basic navigation doesn’t work.
- Increased Bounce Rate: Users encountering 404 errors tend to leave the site quickly. A higher bounce rate can signal to Google that your site is less valuable or user-friendly.
Example:
Suppose you run a blog about content creation tools. A visitor clicks a link to your “Best Video Editing Tools” post, but the page is gone. Instead of reading, they leave your site. You just lost a potential subscriber or customer.
Impact on SEO (Search Engine Optimization)
Google and other search engines care about the health of your website. Broken links can hurt your rankings in several ways:
- Wasted Crawl Budget
Search engine bots crawl your site to index content. If they encounter too many 404 errors, they waste time on non-existent pages instead of indexing your valuable posts. This can slow down your site’s overall SEO performance. - Lost Link Equity (SEO Value)
If other websites link to a page that no longer exists, all the SEO value from those backlinks is lost unless you set up a 301 redirect to a relevant page. - Potential Ranking Drops
While a few 404 errors won’t immediately hurt rankings, a site with numerous broken links can gradually lose visibility, especially if broken internal links prevent users and search engines from accessing important content.
Example Analogy:
Think of your website as a city, and each page is a street. A 404 error is like a street that suddenly disappears. Visitors (and Google) trying to navigate the city get confused, and traffic (rankings and visitors) may decrease over time.
Types of 404 Errors That Affect SEO and UX
- Internal Broken Links: Links within your own posts or pages pointing to removed content.
- External Broken Links: Links from other websites to your deleted or moved pages.
- System/Bot Errors: URLs like
/wp-admin/setup-config.phpor missing plugin assets. These usually don’t impact SEO but can clutter your 404 logs.
How to Reduce the Negative Effects
- Create a Custom 404 Page:
Include a search bar, suggested posts, or links to important pages. This helps visitors find what they were looking for instead of leaving your site. - Redirect Broken Pages:
Use tools like Rank Math or the Redirection plugin to set up 301 redirects from deleted or moved pages to relevant content. - Regularly Monitor 404 Errors:
Check Google Search Console and Rank Math 404 Monitor to detect broken links before they impact SEO or user experience. - Fix Internal Links:
Make sure all links in your posts, menus, and widgets point to existing pages. This prevents visitors from encountering unnecessary errors.
Quick Tip for Beginners
Even if you’re just starting with WordPress, monitoring and fixing 404 errors early can save your site from future SEO problems. Think of it like maintaining a garden: removing broken links and weeds (404s) keeps your website healthy and attractive to both visitors and search engines.
3. Common Causes of 404 Errors
404 errors in WordPress don’t just happen randomly—they usually occur because of specific issues with your site’s content, links, or configuration. Understanding the root causes is the first step in preventing broken pages and improving your site’s SEO and user experience.
1. Deleted Pages or Posts
One of the most common causes of 404 errors is removing content without setting up redirects.
- Scenario: You wrote a post called “Top 10 Video Editing Tools” last year. This year, you deleted it to create a newer, updated guide. If someone clicks on the old link or a search engine still tries to index it, they will land on a 404 page.
- Solution: Always set up a 301 redirect from the deleted page to a relevant page or the homepage. Rank Math and the Redirection plugin make this process simple.
Example:
Old URL: tech4creators.com/top-10-video-editing-tools → Redirect to: tech4creators.com/best-video-editing-tools-2025
2. Changed URLs or Permalinks
WordPress allows you to customize your post URLs, called permalinks. If you change a URL without redirecting the old one, visitors and search engines will hit a 404 page.
- Scenario: You initially published a post at
tech4creators.com/wordpress-tips, then changed it totech4creators.com/wordpress-tutorials. Without a redirect, the old URL becomes a broken link. - Solution: Whenever you change permalinks, use a 301 redirect to the new URL. Both Rank Math and Redirection plugins support this.
3. Typos in Internal or External Links
Even a small typo in a link can create a 404 error.
- Internal Links: Links within your posts, menus, or widgets pointing to your own pages
- External Links: Links from other websites that reference your content incorrectly
Example:
You intended to link to tech4creators.com/wordpress-seo-guide but typed tech4creators.com/worpdress-seo-guide. That single character error will trigger a 404 page.
- Solution: Use a plugin like Broken Link Checker to scan your site regularly, or manually check links before publishing posts.
4. Bot or Hacker Probes
Sometimes, 404 errors appear not because of broken content, but because bots or hackers are scanning your website for vulnerabilities.
- Example URLs:
/wp-admin/setup-config.php/.env/xmlrpc.php
These pages usually don’t exist on your site. They are common probing attempts that show up in your 404 Monitor.
- Impact: These 404s generally don’t affect your SEO, but can clutter your logs.
- Solution: Use Rank Math’s Exclude Paths feature to ignore these irrelevant 404s and keep your logs clean.
5. Plugin or Theme Asset Errors
Certain WordPress plugins and themes generate CSS, JavaScript, or image files dynamically. If these files are deleted, moved, or not generated properly, they can produce 404 errors.
- Scenario: You’re using the UAG/Spectra plugin to create custom blocks. Sometimes, missing CSS files like
uag-css-776.cssappear in your 404 Monitor. - Solution:
- Regenerate plugin assets (most plugins have a “Rebuild CSS/JS” option)
- Ensure proper folder/file permissions (
755for folders,644for files) - Exclude these paths in Rank Math if they are not critical
6. Mistyped Custom URLs in Menus or Widgets
Beginners often manually add URLs in menus, buttons, or sidebars. A small mistake can create a 404.
- Solution:
- Double-check all URLs before adding them
- Use relative URLs when linking internally (e.g.,
/blog/instead ofhttps://tech4creators.com/blog)
Quick Summary Table: Common Causes vs Solutions
| Cause | Example | How to Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Deleted pages/posts | Old blog post removed | Set up 301 redirect |
| Changed permalinks | /wordpress-tips → /wordpress-tutorials | Set up 301 redirect |
| Typos in links | /worpdress-seo-guide | Use Broken Link Checker or manual review |
| Bot/hacker probes | /.env, /setup-config.php | Exclude paths in Rank Math |
| Plugin/theme assets missing | uag-css-776.css | Regenerate files, check permissions, exclude path |
| Mistyped URLs in menus/widgets | Wrong URL in navigation | Double-check links, use relative URLs |
Understanding these causes gives you a clear roadmap to prevent and fix 404 errors WordPress sites often face. Once you know why errors appear, the next step is learning how to detect them efficiently, which we’ll cover in the next section.
4. How to Detect 404 Errors
Detecting 404 errors is the first step toward fixing them. Many beginners don’t realize that broken links may exist long before visitors encounter them, and search engines notice them too. Luckily, WordPress offers multiple ways to identify 404 errors, ranging from built-in SEO tools to dedicated plugins.
1. Google Search Console
Google Search Console is a free and essential tool for any WordPress site owner. It helps you understand how Google sees your website, including 404 errors.
You can locate 404 errors in Google Search Console (GSC) through the Pages report (previously known as the Coverage report).
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Sign in to Google Search Console and choose the correct property for your site.
- In the left-hand menu, go to Indexing → Pages.
- Scroll to the “Why pages aren’t indexed” section.
- Look for the following categories:
- Not found (404): URLs that return a genuine 404 HTTP status code.
- Soft 404: Pages that technically return a 200 (OK) response but appear to Google as missing or empty (for example, a page showing “no results found”).
- Click on a category to see the affected URLs.
- The next screen will show Example URLs, which you can inspect individually or export as a list.
Using this report, you can pinpoint which URLs Google attempted to crawl but couldn’t access. Once identified, you can decide whether to restore the missing pages, implement 301 redirects, or remove the broken links entirely.
Why it helps:
- Detects broken pages that Google has tried to index.
- Helps prioritize fixes for URLs that impact SEO.
Tip: Check Google Search Console regularly (at least once a month) to catch 404 errors early.
2. Rank Math 404 Monitor
If you’re using the Rank Math SEO plugin, you have a built-in 404 Monitor that logs every URL returning a 404 error in real time.
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Go to WordPress Dashboard → Rank Math → 404 Monitor.
- You’ll see a list of URLs that triggered 404 errors, along with the referring URL (where the user came from) and the hit count.
- For each 404, you can click Add Redirect to fix it immediately.
- You can also exclude system-generated URLs, like bot probes or missing plugin assets, to keep your logs clean.
Why it helps:
- Tracks real-world errors experienced by visitors.
- Provides an easy interface to implement 301 redirects quickly.
Example:
A visitor clicks an outdated link to /content-creation-tools-old. Rank Math logs the 404, and you can redirect it to /content-creation-tools with just a few clicks.
Also read: The Amazing Rank Math SEO Plugin Setup Guide
3. Broken Link Checker Plugin
The Broken Link Checker plugin scans your entire site for broken links, even if no one has clicked them yet. This is especially useful for beginners who want to be proactive.
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Install and activate Broken Link Checker.
- Navigate to Tools → Broken Links in your WordPress dashboard.
- The plugin will list all broken internal and external links.
- You can edit, unlink, or redirect each URL directly from the plugin dashboard.
Why it helps:
- Detects errors before users encounter them.
- Scans internal posts, pages, menus, widgets, and comments.
Tip: If your site is large, schedule scans during off-peak hours to avoid server performance issues.
You may also want to read: How to Install a WordPress Plugin Step-by-Step
4. Manual Checks
For smaller sites, a manual approach can also work:
- Click every link in your main menu, footer, and homepage.
- Check old blog posts that may link to outdated content.
- Use browser extensions like Check My Links to scan pages for broken links quickly.
Why it helps:
- Good for small websites or beginners learning the basics.
- Helps you understand the most common areas where 404 errors occur.
5. Combining Detection Methods
The most effective way to catch 404 errors is to combine methods:
- Google Search Console for SEO-impacting errors
- Rank Math 404 Monitor for real-world visitor errors
- Broken Link Checker for internal and external link verification
By using multiple tools, you ensure that no broken link slips through unnoticed, protecting your SEO and user experience.
Quick Example Workflow for Beginners
- Check Google Search Console for 404 errors → note URLs
- Review Rank Math 404 Monitor → add redirects for visitor-facing broken links
- Run Broken Link Checker → fix or update internal links
- Optional: Create a custom 404 page to guide lost visitors
This workflow ensures that 404 errors are detected and fixed proactively, reducing SEO impact and improving user experience.
5. Fixing 404 Errors in WordPress
Once you’ve identified the 404 errors on your website, the next step is to fix them the right way. The good news? You don’t need to be a developer or SEO expert to do this. Whether you’re using Rank Math, Yoast SEO, or no plugin at all, there are simple methods anyone can follow.
Fixing 404 errors ensures that visitors find what they’re looking for — and that Google doesn’t penalize your site for broken links.
Why Fixing 404 Errors Matters
Before we dive into the methods, let’s understand why fixing 404s is crucial:
- Improves User Experience: Visitors hate dead ends. Redirecting them to the right page keeps them engaged.
- Boosts SEO: Broken links waste “link juice” and make your site appear poorly maintained.
- Reduces Bounce Rate: If users land on a 404 page, they’re likely to leave immediately.
- Preserves Backlink Value: If other sites link to a page that’s now missing, redirects ensure that SEO value isn’t lost.
Example:
Imagine a creator’s site where a popular YouTube video links to an old tutorial. If that link is broken, thousands of potential visitors hit a 404 page instead of your new article — losing you traffic and conversions.
1. Fixing 404 Errors Using Rank Math SEO Plugin
Rank Math is one of the easiest tools to manage 404s and redirects directly inside your WordPress dashboard.
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Enable the 404 Monitor:
- Go to Rank Math → Dashboard → Modules.
- Enable both 404 Monitor and Redirections.
- Identify Broken URLs:
- Navigate to Rank Math → 404 Monitor.
- You’ll see a list of URLs that returned 404 errors.
- Add Redirects:
- Click on any broken URL → choose Redirect.
- In the “Source URL,” paste the broken link.
- In the “Destination URL,” enter the correct or new link.
- Choose 301 Permanent Redirect (most common for SEO).
- Click Add Redirection.
- Verify the Fix:
- Visit the broken URL in your browser.
- It should automatically redirect to the new page.
Example:
Broken URL: /old-content-ideas-guide → Redirects to /best-content-ideas-for-creators-2025
Pro Tip:
In Rank Math’s 404 Monitor, ignore irrelevant URLs like /.env, /wp-admin/setup-config.php, or uag-css-776.css. These are system or bot requests, not real user pages.
2. Fixing 404 Errors Using Yoast SEO Plugin
Yoast SEO doesn’t have a built-in 404 monitor, but you can handle redirects efficiently by combining it with the Yoast Redirect Manager (available in Yoast Premium).
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Open the Redirect Manager:
- Go to Yoast SEO → Redirects.
- Add a New Redirect:
- In the “Old URL” field, paste the broken URL.
- In the “New URL” field, add your target destination.
- Select 301 Permanent Redirect.
- Save and Test:
- Save the redirect.
- Visit the broken link to ensure it now goes to the correct page.
If you’re using free Yoast SEO, you can use the Redirection plugin alongside it. It works smoothly and provides the same redirect functionality Rank Math offers.
3. Fixing 404 Errors Without an SEO Plugin
If you’re not using an SEO plugin, you can still fix 404 errors manually — it just takes a few extra steps.
Method 1: Using the Redirection Plugin
- Install and activate the Redirection plugin.
- Go to Tools → Redirection → Add New.
- Enter the old (broken) URL and the new (target) URL.
- Choose 301 Permanent Redirect.
- Save and test the redirect.
Why use it: It’s lightweight, beginner-friendly, and automatically logs 404 errors if you enable the option.
Method 2: Editing the .htaccess File (Advanced)
This method is for users comfortable editing WordPress files.
- Connect to your site using FTP or your hosting’s file manager.
- Locate your .htaccess file in the root directory.
- Add a redirect rule:
Redirect 301 /old-page-url/ https://tech4creators.com/new-page-url/ - Save the file and refresh your site.
Important: Always back up your .htaccess file before making changes. Mistakes here can crash your website.
4. Fixing 404s Caused by Changed Permalink Structures
If you’ve changed your WordPress permalink settings recently, it might cause site-wide 404 errors.
Solution:
- Go to Settings → Permalinks.
- Choose your preferred structure (e.g., “Post name”).
- Click Save Changes — even if you don’t make any changes.
This forces WordPress to regenerate rewrite rules, which often fixes global 404 issues.
5. Fixing Plugin or Theme Asset 404 Errors
If your 404 logs show missing CSS or JS files (like uag-css-776.css), follow these steps:
- Clear your website and plugin cache.
- Regenerate assets using your page builder or plugin settings.
- Make sure your WordPress uploads folder has correct permissions (usually
755). - If these URLs aren’t used by visitors, exclude them from 404 monitoring in Rank Math.
Comparison Table: 404 Fixing Methods
| Method | Plugin Needed | Skill Level | Best For | Redirect Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rank Math | Yes | Beginner | SEO-focused users | 301 / 302 |
| Yoast SEO | Premium | Beginner | Yoast users | 301 / 302 |
| Redirection Plugin | Yes | Beginner | General users | 301 / 302 |
| .htaccess Manual | No | Advanced | Developers | 301 only |
6. Verify That Redirects Are Working
After fixing your 404s, it’s important to test them:
- Visit the old URL and confirm it redirects correctly.
- Use online tools like httpstatus.io to test multiple URLs at once.
- Check Google Search Console after a few days to ensure the errors are resolved.
With these fixes, your WordPress site will no longer lose visitors or SEO value because of broken links. Once your redirects are working and your site is clean, the next step is to prevent 404 errors from happening again — which we’ll cover in the next section.
6. How to Prevent 404 Errors in WordPress (Proactive Maintenance Guide)
Fixing 404 errors is great, but preventing them before they happen is even better. Prevention saves you time, protects your SEO rankings, and ensures your visitors always find the right content.
Think of it like this: fixing 404s is like patching holes in a leaky boat — but preventing them is like building a stronger boat in the first place. Let’s walk through smart, proactive strategies to stop 404 errors before they ever appear on your WordPress site.
1. Plan and Maintain a Consistent URL Structure
A consistent permalink (URL) structure is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to prevent 404 errors.
What it means:
Your website URLs should follow a clear, predictable pattern — usually based on post names.
Recommended setup for bloggers and creators:
Go to Settings → Permalinks → Post name (https://tech4creators.com/sample-post/).
Why it helps:
- URLs stay clean and descriptive
- Less chance of errors when linking internally
- Easier to remember and share
Example:
Instead of https://tech4creators.com/?p=123, use https://tech4creators.com/wordpress-seo-basics.
If you ever decide to change your permalink structure, use Rank Math’s Redirection module or the Redirection pluginto create automatic redirects from old URLs.
2. Avoid Deleting or Renaming Published Content
Every time you delete or rename a published post, you risk breaking existing links — both from your site and from external sources.
Best Practices:
- Don’t delete old posts: Instead, update or repurpose them with fresh content.
- If you must delete: Always set up a 301 redirect from the old URL to the most relevant new one.
- Avoid random URL changes: Even changing one word in a URL can lead to a 404 if the old one was indexed.
Example:
Instead of deleting /best-content-tools-2023, redirect it to /best-content-tools-2025.
3. Regularly Monitor Broken Links
Even with the best planning, 404 errors can sneak in — especially if you link to external sources that move or disappear.
Tools for Monitoring:
- Broken Link Checker plugin (for internal/external links)
- Rank Math 404 Monitor (for live visitor activity)
- Google Search Console (for search engine crawl reports)
Best Practice:
- Run a full broken link scan every 1–2 months.
- Schedule Rank Math email alerts for new 404s (under Rank Math → Settings → Email Reports).
This ensures you’re not just fixing problems — you’re catching them before users notice.
4. Use a Custom 404 Page to Retain Visitors
Even with proactive maintenance, some 404s are inevitable (for example, mistyped URLs or old social shares).
A custom 404 page helps keep users on your site instead of leaving frustrated.
What to include on a good 404 page:
- Friendly message (“Oops! This page doesn’t exist anymore.”)
- Search bar to help users find what they want
- Links to your top posts or categories
- Button to go back to the homepage
Example message:
“Sorry, this page might have moved or never existed. Try searching below or check out our latest guides!”
Bonus Tip:
If you use Astra or another modern WordPress theme, you can easily customize the 404 template with Elementor or Gutenberg to match your brand style.
5. Keep Plugins and Themes Updated
Outdated plugins or themes sometimes cause broken URLs for assets (like CSS, JS, or images).
Always keep your WordPress environment updated.
Checklist:
- Update all plugins, themes, and WordPress core regularly.
- Delete unused plugins or themes to reduce conflicts.
- Clear cache after every major update to regenerate files.
Example:
If your 404 Monitor shows missing files like uag-css-776.css, updating and clearing cache often fixes it instantly.
6. Create Redirect Rules for Common Typos and Old URLs
Visitors or other websites might still type old URLs or misspell links. Creating redirect rules for common variations ensures they still land on your site.
Example redirect rules:
/wordpres-seo-tips→/wordpress-seo-tips/topcontenttools→/content-creation-tools
Rank Math and the Redirection plugin both support wildcard redirects, which let you handle multiple variations with one rule.
7. Regularly Audit Your Internal Links
Broken internal links confuse visitors and search engines alike.
How to audit:
- Use Ahrefs, Screaming Frog, or Rank Math’s SEO Analyzer.
- Check your menus, widgets, and footers for outdated URLs.
- Update internal links whenever you change your post structure.
Pro Tip:
Use relative URLs (like /blog/) for internal navigation instead of absolute URLs (https://tech4creators.com/blog/). This helps prevent issues when changing domains or migrating sites.
8. Avoid Excessive URL Parameters or Special Characters
URLs with too many query parameters or symbols can easily break or confuse crawlers.
Keep URLs short, readable, and keyword-rich.
Example:
Bad: /blog?id=25&sort=old
Good: /blog/seo-basics/
SEO-friendly URLs are less likely to cause 404 errors during theme or permalink changes.
9. Monitor Server and Hosting Health
Sometimes, 404 errors occur because of temporary hosting issues, not actual missing pages.
Ensure your hosting is reliable, with fast uptime and proper configuration.
Checklist:
- Use quality hosting (like SiteGround, Hostinger, or WPX)
- Check file permissions (
755for folders,644for files) - Use a plugin like WP Health Check to monitor uptime
10. Educate Contributors and Team Members
If you have multiple authors or editors, train them to use best practices:
- Never change permalinks after publishing.
- Use redirects when merging or deleting posts.
- Double-check links before publishing articles.
This prevents accidental 404s caused by simple human errors — which are often the most common kind.
Quick Reference: 404 Prevention Checklist
| Action | Frequency | Tool / Area |
|---|---|---|
| Review broken links | Monthly | Broken Link Checker / Rank Math |
| Check Google Search Console | Monthly | Search Console |
| Update plugins/themes | Weekly | WordPress Dashboard |
| Test 404 page | Quarterly | Browser test |
| Audit internal links | Quarterly | SEO Analyzer / Manual |
| Review redirects | Bi-annually | Rank Math / Redirection |
By following these preventive measures, you’ll not only reduce 404 errors but also create a smoother, more professional experience for your readers and improve your search rankings.
The final step in mastering this topic is understanding how to manage 404s efficiently depending on your SEO setup — whether you use Rank Math, Yoast SEO, or no plugin at all.
7. Managing 404s: Rank Math vs Yoast vs No SEO Plugin (Which Is Best?)
Now that you know how to fix and prevent 404 errors, let’s address one of the most common questions creators and bloggers have:
“Should I handle 404 errors with an SEO plugin like Rank Math or Yoast, or use a separate plugin like Redirection?”
This is a crucial decision — especially if you want a clean, lightweight website without overlapping tools. Let’s compare the three main options you have:
1. Managing 404s with Rank Math SEO Plugin
Rank Math offers one of the most complete 404 management systems of any SEO plugin. It’s an all-in-one solution, meaning you don’t need extra plugins for redirections or broken link tracking.
Key Features:
- 404 Monitor (logs every “Not Found” request)
- Built-in Redirection Manager
- Auto Redirect for moved or changed URLs
- Option to ignore system-generated URLs
- Real-time error tracking with source URLs
- Integration with Analytics and Schema
Pros:
- Built-in, no need for separate 404 or redirection plugins
- Easy one-click redirect creation from the 404 log
- Lightweight and optimized for performance
- Ideal for both beginners and advanced users
Cons:
- Can be overwhelming for absolute beginners due to its many settings
- Must be properly configured to avoid logging unnecessary bot URLs
Best For:
Bloggers, creators, and small business owners who want an all-in-one SEO + 404 + redirect tool.
Example:
If you change /wordpress-tips to /wordpress-tutorials, Rank Math automatically detects it, logs it, and allows instant redirection — all within one interface.
2. Managing 404s with Yoast SEO Plugin
Yoast SEO (especially the free version) doesn’t have built-in 404 or redirection tools. To manage broken links, you’ll need to either:
- Upgrade to Yoast SEO Premium, or
- Use a separate plugin like Redirection.
Yoast Premium Redirect Manager features:
- Add 301, 302, and 307 redirects
- Automatically create redirects when you delete a post
- Integrated redirect notifications in the editor
Pros:
- Simple and reliable redirect system
- Automatic redirect suggestions when removing content
- Ideal for users already comfortable with Yoast’s interface
Cons:
- 404 monitoring only available in limited form (via Google Search Console integration)
- Requires premium version for full functionality
- No live 404 log like Rank Math’s monitor
Best For:
Bloggers who already use Yoast and prefer minimal plugin additions — but are okay with upgrading to Premium for redirect features.
3. Managing 404s Without an SEO Plugin
Some site owners prefer not to use SEO plugins for redirections or 404 management — especially if they already have a custom setup or a lightweight site.
In that case, you can use standalone tools like:
- Redirection plugin (recommended)
- Broken Link Checker
- .htaccess redirects (for advanced users)
Pros:
- Keeps your SEO plugin lightweight
- Works even if you switch SEO plugins later
- Simple visual interface with import/export options
Cons:
- Requires multiple plugins to achieve what Rank Math does alone
- Manual configuration needed for advanced redirects
- No analytics or SEO integration
Best For:
Minimalist users, developers, or those who want complete control over redirection logic without relying on SEO plugins.
Comparison Table: 404 Management Options
| Feature | Rank Math | Yoast SEO | No Plugin (Redirection) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 404 Monitor | ✅ Built-in | ❌ Not available (only via GSC) | ✅ Optional |
| Redirect Manager | ✅ Built-in | ✅ Premium only | ✅ Separate plugin |
| Automatic Redirects | ✅ Yes | ✅ Premium only | ⚙️ Manual |
| Bot URL Exclusion | ✅ Yes | ❌ No | ⚙️ Manual setup |
| Ease of Use | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Performance | 🟢 Lightweight | 🟡 Moderate | 🟢 Lightweight |
| Best For | All-in-one SEO users | Existing Yoast users | Minimalist setups |
Which Option Should You Choose?
Let’s make this simple based on your situation:
| User Type | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| New Blogger or Creator | Rank Math — all-in-one, beginner-friendly, and saves time |
| Yoast User (Free) | Add the Redirection plugin for managing 404s |
| Yoast Premium User | Use Yoast’s built-in redirect manager |
| Advanced or Custom Developer | Manual .htaccess redirects for precise control |
Expert Recommendation (from Tech4Creators)
For 95% of creators and bloggers, Rank Math is the best solution.
It combines SEO optimization, 404 monitoring, and redirection management under one clean, lightweight dashboard — with no need for extra plugins.
However, if you’re already invested in Yoast and comfortable with it, upgrading to Yoast Premium or installing Redirection will do the job just fine.
The key takeaway:
It doesn’t matter which plugin you use — what matters is that you track, fix, and redirect broken links promptly.
8. Conclusion
404 errors in WordPress may seem frustrating, but they are completely manageable — and with the right approach, they don’t have to hurt your website, your SEO, or your visitors’ experience. By understanding what causes 404 errors, regularly monitoring your site, and implementing proper fixes and redirects, you can keep your website healthy, professional, and user-friendly.
Whether you’re using Rank Math, Yoast SEO, or no SEO plugin at all, the key is consistency. Regularly check your 404 logs, fix broken links promptly, and prevent future errors with a solid URL structure, internal link audits, and custom 404 pages that guide your visitors. Even small actions like creating redirects for deleted posts or typos in URLs can make a huge difference in retaining traffic and preserving your SEO value.
For creators, bloggers, and WordPress beginners, tackling 404 errors is an essential step toward growing a trustworthy, high-performing website. By following the strategies in this guide, you’ll not only improve your search engine rankings but also provide a smoother, more enjoyable experience for your readers.
Take Action Today:
- Check your site for 404 errors using Rank Math 404 Monitor or Google Search Console.
- Fix broken links with 301 redirects.
- Design a helpful custom 404 page to retain visitors.
- Implement preventive measures to reduce future errors.
Remember, a site free of 404 errors is a site that builds trust, authority, and long-term growth. Start fixing and preventing 404s now — your audience and Google will thank you.
9. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About 404 Errors in WordPress
GS Aeri is the founder of Tech4Creators, a platform created to help digital creators make sense of the tools, tech, and trends shaping today’s online world. With a focus on simplifying complex concepts and turning them into practical guidance, Aeri supports creators in working smarter, growing faster, and bringing bold ideas to life.
