WordPress 404 Error: How to Fix It with Permalink Settings

The 404 error, which can cause you to lose visitors to your website, is a common issue for WordPress users. If you’re encountering this error, not only will your visitors fail to reach the page they’re looking for, but your SEO performance may also be negatively affected. Fortunately, you can resolve this issue by correctly configuring your permalink settings. Here's a guide to help you fix the WordPress 404 error.

What is the WordPress 404 Error and Why Does It Occur?

The WordPress 404 error is a situation that occurs when visitors try to access a non-existent page on your website. This error is typically caused by an incorrect or broken page URL, or by improperly configured permalink settings on your site. Additionally, the error can appear if a page has been moved or deleted. Server configuration issues or corruptions in your .htaccess file can also lead to a 404 error.

How to Check and Correctly Configure Permalink Settings

Permalinks are the settings that determine the URL structure of your website. Incorrectly configured permalinks can lead to a 404 error. To check and correctly configure permalink settings in WordPress, follow these steps:

1. Log in to your WordPress admin panel.
2. Click on the "Permalinks" option in the "Settings" menu.
3. Check your permalink structure and change it if necessary. Typically, the "Post Name" option provides the best SEO results.
4. Save the changes and test your site to see if the error has been resolved.

Fixing the 404 Error by Editing the .htaccess File

The .htaccess file is a configuration file for the web server. Corruptions in this file can cause the 404 error. To edit the .htaccess file:

1. Find the .htaccess file located in the root directory of your website. This file is usually hidden, so make sure you enable the option to show hidden files.
2. After creating a backup copy, open the file with a text editor.
3. Add the following code to your .htaccess file or check for existing entries:

 # BEGIN WordPress
        RewriteEngine On
        RewriteBase /
        RewriteRule ^index\.php$ - [L]
        RewriteCond %{REQUEST_FILENAME} !-f
        RewriteCond %{REQUEST_FILENAME} !-d
        RewriteRule . /index.php [L]
        
        # END WordPress

Save the file and upload it to your server. Check to see if the changes have taken effect.

Solving the 404 Error with Plugins: Best Tools and Methods

WordPress plugins can be highly effective in resolving 404 errors. Below are some popular plugins that can help you solve these issues:

• Redirection: This plugin helps you track broken links and automatically redirect them to new pages.
• Yoast SEO: Although an SEO-focused plugin, it can also detect broken links and notify you.
• All 404 Redirect to Homepage: A simple solution that redirects all 404 errors to the homepage.

By using these plugins, you can manage 404 errors effectively and provide a better user experience to your visitors.

Improving SEO Performance After Correcting Permalink Settings

Correctly configuring your permalink settings can positively impact your SEO performance. Here are some tactics to further improve your SEO after making these changes:

• Use Short and Meaningful URLs: Search engines prefer meaningful URLs. Short and descriptive URLs can improve your SEO rankings.
• Include Keywords: Including keywords in your URLs can help search engines better understand your content.
• Use 301 Redirects: For moved or deleted pages, use 301 redirects to ensure that your SEO value is not lost.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does a 404 error affect SEO?
404 errors can negatively impact user experience, increase bounce rates, and harm your SEO performance.

Is it safe to modify the .htaccess file?
Yes, but it's important to back up the file before making changes. Incorrect changes can make your site inaccessible.

Will changing permalink settings affect other parts of my site?
Changing permalink settings may alter the current URL structure, causing older links to break. Therefore, it's important to use 301 redirects.

Should I do anything else after changing permalink settings?
Yes, after making changes, test your site to ensure everything is working properly, and set up any necessary redirects.