How to Create a Custom 404 Page in WordPress

Very often, a visitor to your site might find themselves on a 404 error page due to a missing link or a deleted page. Having a custom 404 page adds a professional touch to your site and helps guide visitors to useful content instead of leaving them at a dead end. In this guide, we’ll show you how to create a custom 404 page in WordPress step by step for beginners, with clear practical examples. Let’s get started!

Step One: Understanding the Concept of a 404 Page in WordPress

Before starting to work on a custom 404 page, let’s understand how it works in WordPress:

• When a visitor tries to access a non-existent link or a deleted page, WordPress by default displays the 404.php file located in the theme folder.
• If there is no 404.php file in the theme or child theme, WordPress may use other files as a fallback or display a default error page.

Step Two: Creating a Custom 404 Template

The simplest way to create a custom 404 page is to add a 404.php file inside the theme or child theme folder. Here’s a simple sample 404.php file:

 <?php /* * Template Name: Custom 404 Page */ get_header(); ?>

In this code:

1. get_header(): Calls the theme header.
2. get_footer(): Calls the theme footer.
3. We added a simple error message, a link back to the homepage, and a search form to help the user find the desired content.

Step Three: Using a Child Theme

If you don’t want to lose your customizations when updating the parent theme, make sure to use a Child Theme. To create a child theme:

1. Create a new folder inside wp-content/themes, for example, mytheme-child.
2. Create a style.css file inside and add the following information:

 /* Theme Name: My Theme Child Template: mytheme Version: 1.0 */ 

Change mytheme to the name of the parent theme, then copy the 404.php file from the parent theme into the child theme folder and edit it there.

Step Four: Customizing the Design and Styling

It’s best to add some aesthetic touches to the 404 error page, such as images and attractive colors. You can use CSS files or add them directly into the template code. Here’s a simple example for adding some styles:

 .not-found-container { text-align: center; margin: 50px auto; max-width: 600px; }
.not-found-container h1 {
font-size: 2em;
color: #333;
}

.not-found-container p {
font-size: 1.2em;
margin: 20px 0;
}

Step Five: Creating a 404 Page via the WordPress Dashboard (Optional)

Another way to create a custom 404 page is via the WordPress dashboard using a plugin that allows you to create 404 error pages and specify the page visitors will be redirected to, such as the 404page plugin or page builder plugins. After installing the plugin:

1. Create a new page via Pages > Add New.
2. Add error content or design elements that suit your site.
3. From the plugin settings (like 404page), select this page as the default error page.

Step Six: Testing the 404 Page

After finishing your 404 page customization, test it by trying to access a fake or non-existent link like: yoursite.com/non-existent-page. If your custom page appears, the steps were successful.

Step Seven: The Importance of a Professional 404 Page

Now that you’ve learned how to create a custom 404 page, let’s talk about its importance. This type of page helps:

• Maintain visitor engagement: By directing them to useful options like search or important links.
• Prevent visitors from leaving your site: The default error page leads to confusion and quick exits.
• Showcase your brand identity: You can add touches of your personality or project identity, which reflects professionalism.

Why Do You Need a Professional Site with ITQAN

The 404 page is just a small part of your website’s identity. Having a professional site means offering a unique user experience tailored for the Arabic audience. This is where ITQAN comes in, providing innovative solutions for the skilled design and development of Arabic websites, adhering to the latest web standards.
Whether you’re looking to build a new site or improve your current one, the ITQAN team has extensive experience in WordPress theme and website development. We always strive to help you enhance your online presence and turn your vision into reality.

Contact Us Now!

If you’d like a complete WordPress site that meets your needs and reflects your business identity, contact ITQAN today. Start your journey to digital excellence by clicking the link below:
Contact ITQAN

Don’t let the competition get ahead of you in the digital market. Start now by building a professional site that ensures your visitors stay and helps you succeed. Our team is ready to answer your questions and provide the right advice for your upcoming projects!

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