The so-called 404 error page shows your users that they are on a page that no longer exists, or the URL is misspelled. This happens when you have deleted a page to which there is an existing link (in your or someone else’s media), or the user simply misspelled the address.
This page should clearly show users where they are and the potential reasons for being there.
It should have the following details:
Logo
The logo is the fastest and easiest way for users to determine whose site they are on
Title
Make it clear that this is a page demonstrating a 404 error.
Description
Explain to users why they are seeing this page and what the possible reasons are – broken link, deleted page.
Links to other pages
Offer your customers the opportunity to go elsewhere on your site.
Include a link to your site’s home page, contact page. Optionally, you could do this using buttons.
You could also add a search engine so users can search for what they came to your site for.
Illustrations, visual elements (optional)
You could decorate your 404 page. This is a great opportunity to present your brand in the way you want it to be perceived by your potential and existing customers. There are endless articles dedicated to the 404 page and how to make it more welcoming, interesting and interactive. Who knows, your site may appear on such a list of good examples.
