Why Do I Get an Error 404 and Then a Redirect?

When you try to access a file or page that does not exist, your Web browser will display a 404 error. It may be the server's generic 404 alert or a customized 404 page that redirects you elsewhere.

Function

When your Web browser displays a 404 error, it indicates that the page or file you were trying to access is not located at the URL. If the browser goes on to redirect you, the developer may have instructed the server to redirect users to an existing page, such as the website index.

Causes

You may see the 404 "Not Found" error when you incorrectly type a URL into your address bar. Additionally, you may have clicked a link that leads to a file that no longer exists.

Solution

If you have made a typing error, you can try to access the page with the correct URL. However, if the page does not exist and the website owner has put in place a redirect, you will not be able to access the file. You may attempt to access the website index and locate the page using the site's navigation or search feature.

References

• Check Up Down: HTTP Error 404 Not found
• Htaccess Basics: How to redirect your 404 error to a custom page