The ‘404 error’ is an HTTP status code – a code which tells you the status of the response of the web server. A HTTP ‘404’ status code tells you that the page you were trying to find could not be found on the server. Depending on the website the ‘404’ code might appear differently as the code is customized by websites, for instance ‘page cannot be found’, ‘the page cannot be found and ‘404 not found’ are all common error messages relating to the 404 error.
There are a number of ways you can resolve the problem, but it will take a few hours of troubleshooting. First of all refresh the page or retype the address. It is well known that this error sometime occurs on a temporary basis for no particular reason. Secondly check the URL was typed in correctly as 404 errors can occur when you have the wrong address.
If it appears that none of these are the problem then go back a level in the URL, one at a time, to test if it is the whole website. For instance if you are on a secondary page on a website, go back to the homepage. If the homepage is fine, try typing in the page you wanted into the search engine. If the 404 error continues, try the links on the site to the original page you wanted.
Still having problems? You’re probably about ready to scream. But relax; just look online for websites that tell you when a website is down. They will confirm that the website is totally down for everyone or if it is a problem at your end.
Lastly, if you have not been able to resolve the issue contact the webmaster of the website. They should be reachable by email, usually webmaster goes before the ‘@’ of the websites email address. Just ask them where you can locate the page you wanted.
The 404 error is probably one of the least problematic issues, which can be easily resolved by troubleshooting. Troubleshooting is key to solving computer issues and is one of the chief skills of a computer technician. Any training program or certification that tests your skills as a technician will always test your troubleshooting skills. In fact the CompTIA A+ certification has a whole module devoted to testing your troubleshooting skills.
Interested in training for the CompTIA A plus Certification, have a look at the computer based training resources available at www.cvision.co.uk