Turning Your "404 Error Pages"
Into Profits!
Now, MOST people, when they click on a URL and get a "404 File Not Found" error will back up one page - or simply click off and return to their initial search engine results and look elsewhere.
They won't spend a lot of time searching for a specific document or page on your website when they have literally thousands (if not millions) of other choices.
They figure: “Why waste time on broken links, when there are plenty of other websites to choose from?”
It’s best NOT to have a broken link. But sometimes, either through oversight or a glitch in the network, they happen.
The key is figuring out a way to keep your customers at your site even when they find a broken link. Fortunately, this isn't hard.
The “.htaccess” File Insider Secret
All you have to do ask you web host about your .htaccess file. This access file has the ability to tell your server to direct ANY 404 error encountered, anywhere on your site, to your desired page.
So if any web surfer ever winds up on a "404 Error Page" while looking or searching for something at your site, they’ll be automatically redirected to ONE of our hot-selling products!
That’s a heck of a lot better than those dead-end error pages. (Make sure you use your unique affiliate link URL. It’s easy – just scroll down to the end of this page and you’ll see how.)
Troubleshooting Common “404” Redirect Problems
Here are some common problems people have with their 404 redirect page.
Wrong URL
Many webmasters type in the wrong URL when creating their directory file. The solution? Make sure you test your pages, and you’ll catch and prevent this problem from occurring.
Partial URL Links
Still others add a partial URL link instead of a full link when loading their 404 Error Page. This can lead to errors like improper loading. The solution? Again - be sure you type in a full link. Then test it!
How To Test
That’s easy – deliberately mistype a page URL on your site. For instance, instead of www.mysite.com/makemoney.html - try www.mysite.com/makemonkey.html
The “404 Error” should kick in – and you’ll be re-directed to the money making page you specified!
Frequently Asked “404 Error” Redirect Questions
Can anyone customize their “404 File Not Found” Page?
Unfortunately, no. There are some restrictions. If your web hosting company doesn't enable this tool, you won't be able to customize your 404 page. In the past, sites hosted by Geocities and Tripod didn’t allow this customization. Some other free hosting sites also create this problem.
How do I find out if I can create a custom “404 File Not Found” page?
If your web host does allow you to create a customized 404 page, they'll say so in the hosting documentation. What you should look for is information about customizing an ".htaccess" file. If you find information about creating an .htaccess file, you should be able to create your own specialized page.
I followed the steps but I’m still having trouble!
Call or e-mail your web server or hosting company and see if they can help you troubleshoot your problem in more detail.
Remember, a custom 404 Error Page is essential if you want to keep your customers from bailing out in case of errors. People are notorious for leaving a website at the first hint of trouble. In fact – the rule of thumb is this: If someone can’t access your page within 5 seconds – they’ll leave! A customer who has a good experience when they do find a broken link is more likely to stay on your site and access it again. And eventually – they may even become a paying customer!
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