How to Create a Custom 404 Page Template in WordPress (2 methods)

A 404 error page is displayed when a user tries to access a page that doesn’t exist on your website. By default, WordPress provides a basic 404 page, but it often lacks creativity and doesn’t align with your website’s design or branding. Creating a custom 404 page can improve user experience, reduce bounce rates, and even provide helpful navigation options to keep visitors engaged.

In this article, we’ll explore two methods to create a custom 404 page template in WordPress:

Using a Theme Builder or Page Builder Plugin
Creating a Custom 404 Template File Manually

Let’s dive into each method in detail.

Method 1: Using a Theme Builder or Page Builder Plugin

This method is ideal for users who are not comfortable with coding or want a quick and easy way to create a custom 404 page. Popular page builders like Elementor, Divi, or Beaver Builder allow you to design a 404 page visually.

Step 1: Access Your Theme Files

Go to Appearance > Theme File Editor in your WordPress dashboard.
Alternatively, use an FTP client or your hosting file manager to access your theme files.

Step 2: Create a New Page for Your 404 Template

Go to Pages > Add New.
Give your page a title, such as “404 Page”.
Click Edit with Elementor (or your preferred page builder).

Step 3: Design Your 404 Page

Using the drag-and-drop interface, design your 404 page. You can add elements like:

A friendly message (e.g., “Oops! That page can’t be found.”)
A search bar to help users find what they’re looking for.
Links to popular pages or your homepage.
Custom graphics or animations to make the page visually appealing.

Step 4: Save and Publish the Page

Once you’re satisfied with your design, click Publish to save the page.

Step 5: Set the Page as Your 404 Template

To assign this page as your 404 template, you’ll need a plugin like 404page. Here’s how:

Install and activate the 404page plugin from the WordPress repository.
Go to Settings > 404 Error Page.
Select the page you created (e.g., “404 Page”) from the dropdown menu.
Click Save Changes.

Now, when a user encounters a 404 error, they’ll see your custom-designed page.

Method 2: Manually Creating a Custom 404.php File

For those who prefer coding, manually creating a 404.php file gives more control over the design and functionality.

Step 1: Locate or Create the 404.php File

By default, WordPress themes include a 404.php file inside the theme folder. If your theme lacks one:

Go to wp-content/themes/your-theme/.
Create a new file and name it 404.php.

Step 2: Edit the 404.php File

Open the file in a code editor and customize it. Here’s a basic template:

<?php get_header(); ?>

<div class="error-404 not-found">
    <h1>Oops! Page Not Found</h1>
    <p>It looks like nothing was found at this location. Try searching or go back to the <a href="<?php echo home_url(); ?>">homepage</a>.</p>
    <?php get_search_form(); ?>
</div>

<?php get_footer(); ?>

Step 3: Style the 404 Page (Optional)

To enhance the appearance, add custom CSS in style.css:

.error-404 {
    text-align: center;
    padding: 50px;
    font-size: 18px;
}
.error-404 a {
    color: #0073aa;
    text-decoration: underline;
}

Step 4: Upload and Test

Save the changes and upload the file to your theme folder.
Visit a non-existent URL on your website (e.g., yoursite.com/randompage) to test your new 404 page.

This method is great for developers who want full control over their custom 404 page.

Tips for Designing an Effective 404 Page

Keep it Simple: Avoid overwhelming users with too much information.
Add Navigation: Include links to your homepage, popular posts, or a search bar.
Use Humor or Creativity: A funny or creative 404 page can turn a frustrating experience into a positive one.
Match Your Branding: Ensure the design aligns with your website’s overall look and feel.

Conclusion

Creating a custom 404 page in WordPress is a great way to enhance user experience and maintain your website’s professionalism. Whether you use a page builder plugin for a no-code solution or create a custom template file manually, both methods allow you to design a 404 page that reflects your brand and helps users navigate your site effectively.

Choose the method that best suits your skill level and start building a custom 404 page today!

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