404

Not Found

Description

The server can not find the requested resource. In the browser, this means the URL is not recognized. In an API, this can also mean that the endpoint is valid but the resource itself does not exist. Servers may also send this response instead of 403 Forbidden to hide the existence of a resource from an unauthorized client.

HTTP Status Codes Details

Status Code
404
Status Name
Not Found
Class
4xx
Common Usage
Yes

Common Scenarios

  • Requesting a non-existent page or resource
  • Broken or outdated links
  • Mistyped URLs
  • Deleted or moved content
  • API endpoints that no longer exist

Handling Recommendations

  • Implement custom 404 pages with helpful navigation
  • Log 404 errors to identify broken links
  • Set up proper redirects for moved content
  • Provide search functionality on 404 pages
  • Return meaningful error messages in APIs

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Fact-checking completed

Verified by: Pavel Volkov
Created:
Last updated:
Information verified against official sources

Official Sources

Internet Engineering Task Force RFCs

Official HTTP status codes specification (RFC 7231)

Internet standards organization defining HTTP protocols

Mozilla Developer Network

Comprehensive HTTP status codes documentation

Authoritative web development documentation

Internet Assigned Numbers Authority

Official HTTP status code registry

Internet protocol parameters authority