So you have error code 410 on your website or at surf the Internet seen and wonder what it means? Don't worry, you're not alone! The error code 410 is an HTTP status code indicating that the requested resource has been permanently removed. Unlike other status codes like 404, which says a page was not found, the 410 status code is definitive: the page is gone and won't come back.
Why is error code 410 important?
It is particularly important for Search Engine optimization (SEO), as it gives clear instructions to search engines like Google to remove the page from their index. Later more!
Technical aspects of the 410 Gone status code
Now that we know what error code 410 is, let’s dive a little deeper into the technical aspects. Not all webserver display the error code in the same way. Some might simply display "410 Gone," while others might provide a full error page with more information.
How is the error code generated?
The error code 410 is generated on the server side. This means that the web server accepts the request Customers (this is usually your web browser) receives and decides to send back the 410 status code. This is often a conscious decision by the webmaster, especially if a page or resource has been permanently removed.
Temporary vs. permanent HTTP status codes
It is important to recognize the difference between temporary and permanent HTTP status codes to understand. A temporary status code like 302 tells the browser that the resource has been temporarily moved and could come back later. A permanent status code like 410 tells the browser that the resource is gone forever. You can find more information about HTTP status codes here.
Practical use cases for the 410 error
You may be wondering when it makes sense to use a 410 error code. The answer depends on various scenarios that we will discuss below.
Deletion of URLs CMS
Content management systems (CMS) like WordPress sometimes automatically generate URLs for new pages or posts. If these URLs are no longer needed, it makes sense to set a 410 error code to inform search engines about this.
Mass deletion of obsolete ones Content or products
If you run an e-commerce website and discontinue a product line, you can set a 410 error code for those product pages. This signals search engines to remove these pages from their index.
Dealing with URLs created by hackers
Unfortunately, it is a sad reality that websites get hacked. When this happens, hackers can create auto-generated URLs that are malicious -- contain. A 410 error code can be useful in such cases to permanently remove these URLs.
Deletion of URLs with low Traffic
Sometimes we create pages that just don't get the attention we expect. Instead of them in Website To let them float, it is better to set a 410 error code and remove them permanently.
Difference between 404 and 410
Now it's getting exciting! We've already learned about error code 410, but how is it different from a 404 error? Both error codes signal that a page was not found, but there are subtle differences that are primarily responsible for SEO are important.
How search engines react to these error codes
Google and other search engines treat these two error codes differently. A 404 error is often considered temporary, and the Google bot will re-open the page later visit. However, with a 410 error, the page is considered permanently removed and is removed from the index more quickly. This is worth its weight in gold if you want to ensure that a deleted page no longer appears in search results.
When and why to use the 410 status code instead of the 404
Deciding between a 404 and a 410 depends on your intent. If a page is only temporarily unavailable and will be restored later, a 404 error is a better choice. However, if the page is gone forever, you should put a 410. Here you will find a detailed explanation of the differences.
Troubleshooting and best practices
Now that we have the Basics and understand differences, it's time to dive into troubleshooting and best practices. Because knowledge is power, but application is the key!
Recommendations for correct Implementation the 410 status code
Implementing a 410 status code can and the .htaccess file on an Apache server or via the configuration file on an Nginx server. It is important to check after implementation that the status code is delivered correctly. Tools like Redirect checker can help with that.
Tools to check the status code of a Website
There are different Tools, which can show you the status code of a website. In addition to the redirect checker already mentioned, there are browser extensions and online services that provide this information. A good tool is Ayima Redirect Path.
Tips for avoiding unnecessary things Traffic and optimization the crawl budget
A 410 error code not only helps remove a page from the index but also saves crawling Budget. Search engines have a limited budget for crawling any website, and by using a 410 error instead of a 404, you can use that budget more efficiently.
Conclusion and conclusion
We've learned a lot about error code 410, haven't we? From its meaning and technical aspects to practical use cases and best practices. The 410 error code is a powerful tool in your SEO-Arsenal when it comes to sending clear signals to search engines.
Key takeaway points
- Use 410 error code for permanently deleted pages.
- Clearly distinguish between error codes 404 and 410.
- Verify the implementation carefully using reliable tools.
The Importance of Dealing with Error Code 410 Correctly for SEO
Dealing with error code 410 correctly can help your SEO-Significantly improve strategy. It helps search engines, yours Better understand content and your website crawl more efficiently.
