What is the 410 Gone Error?
The 410 Gone error is an HTTP status code that is returned by a web server when the client, such as a browser or web crawler, requests a resource that is no longer available at the specified URL. This status code is classified as a “client error,” which indicates that the problem lies with the client’s request rather than with the server itself.
Unlike the more common 404 Not Found error, which can occur due to non-existing or mistyped URLs, the 410 Gone status code is used to signal that a resource was previously available but has been intentionally and permanently removed from the server. The key difference between a 404 and a 410 error is that the 410 error explicitly tells both users and search engines that the resource is permanently gone and will not be available again at the requested location.
How Does the 410 Gone Error Affect Website Visitors and Search Engines?
For website visitors, encountering a 410 Gone error means that the page or resource they were trying to access has been permanently removed. In practice, the experience is similar to encountering a 404 error, as both indicate that the requested page is unavailable. However, the 410 error provides a clearer indication that the page will not return in the future.
For search engines, the 410 status code is more definitive than a 404 error. While a 404 error might be temporary (for example, due to a mistyped URL or a page that is temporarily down), a 410 error indicates that the resource is permanently gone. This distinction is important for search engine crawlers like Googlebot. When Google encounters a 404 error, it may wait for a period (often around 24 hours) before deciding to remove the page from its index. In contrast, a 410 error typically leads to immediate removal of the page from the search index, as it signals that the page will not return.
When Should You Use a 404 or 410 Error for Deleted Pages?
Deciding whether to use a 404 or 410 error for deleted pages on your website depends on the specific circumstances surrounding the removal of the content. Here’s a general guideline:
- Use a 404 Error: If a page is removed but you believe the removal might be temporary, or if there is a chance that the page could return, it’s best to use a 404 status code. A 404 error tells search engines that the page is currently unavailable, but it leaves open the possibility that the page might be restored at a later time.
- Use a 410 Error: If you have permanently removed a page and there is no equivalent content to redirect users to, then a 410 status code is appropriate. The 410 error clearly indicates to both users and search engines that the page is gone for good and will not return.
Matt Cutts, a former Google engineer, provided helpful guidance in a webmaster help video:
“If a page is gone and you think it’s temporary, go ahead and use a 404. If the page is gone and you know no other page that should substitute for it, you don’t have anywhere else that you should point to, and you know that that page is going to be gone and never come back, then go ahead and serve a 410.”
Best Practices for Handling Deleted Pages
When managing deleted pages on your website, it’s important to follow best practices to maintain a positive user experience and preserve your site’s SEO performance:
- Use 301 Redirects When Possible: If you’ve deleted a page but there is another relevant page on your site that users might find helpful, consider setting up a 301 redirect from the deleted page to the new page. This ensures that both users and search engines are guided to the right content, preserving link equity and preventing the need for a 404 or 410 error.
- Implement Custom Error Pages: Whether you’re using a 404 or 410 status code, it’s important to have a custom error page in place. A well-designed custom error page can guide users to other relevant content on your site, reducing frustration and encouraging them to continue exploring your site rather than leaving.
- Regularly Audit Your Website: Perform regular audits of your site to identify any broken links, 404 errors, or pages that might need to be removed or redirected. Tools like Google Search Console, Screaming Frog, or Ahrefs can help you monitor and manage your site’s health.
- Communicate with Search Engines: When you permanently remove content and use a 410 status code, it’s helpful to submit an updated sitemap to Google Search Console. This ensures that Google is aware of the changes and can adjust its index accordingly.
Conclusion
The 410 Gone error is a powerful tool for webmasters who need to permanently remove content from their websites. By understanding when and how to use this status code, you can effectively manage deleted pages, ensure a clear communication with search engines, and maintain a positive user experience.
While both 404 and 410 errors signal that a page is no longer available, the 410 error is more definitive and should be used when you’re certain that the content will not return. By following best practices and making informed decisions about how to handle deleted pages, you can keep your website running smoothly and ensure that both users and search engines have a clear understanding of your site’s structure.