Do you struggle with an error while browsing the web that puzzles you? Perhaps, you may trip on the HTTP 410 error, known as the “Gone” error code. At some instincts, we all have experienced it. However, Typing a URL and Encountering the infamous “page not found” error, which is also known as a 404 error. Usually, a simple refresh or retrying it later can solve the problem. But in case what if the page you’re looking for has been permanently removed? That’s where you’ll have to face a different error named “HTTP 410 error”. There is no chance left for its return.
How is it different from the 404 error code? If you wonder, what does 410 mean and why it pops up, you are in the right place to go. Let’s delve into the world of error codes and uncover the true significance behind the mysterious “Gone” message. Below in this article, we have demystified the HTTP 410 error and explored its importance for website owners and users. Also mentioned how you can fix this error.
What does 410 mean?/ What is HTTP 410 Gone error?
The 410 error code, also known as “HTTP 410 Gone,” is a status code that tells the search engines and users that the requested resource is no longer available and has been permanently removed from the server. It conveys a message that the server is aware of the previously existing resource but has purposely and permanently discarded them.
The 410 error is helpful in conditions where a webmaster or web owner thinks it is better to inform search engines and users that a particular page or content is no longer being accessed or indexed. It allows them accurately remove outdated or irrelevant content from search engine results. This error also helps to maintain the integrity of search engine indexes.
Why does the “HTTP 410 Gone” error occur?
After knowing What does 410 mean? Now let’s head toward the reason for appearing this error. The 420 Gone error occurs when a server receives a request to search for a Specific resource URL that was previously available but has been intentionally and permanently removed from the servers. Dissimilar to other errors that may denote temporary issues or mistyped URLs, the HTTP 410 Gone error specifically signifies that the asked URL resource is gone and will not be returning.
Several possible factors lead to this error which we have mentioned below:
Website Restructuring
When a web owner recently makes changes to his Content Management System (CMS) or when a website undergoes a significant restructuring or redesign. Then it could inadvertently trigger a “410 Gone” status code. However, new plugins, updates, or extensions can make changes to your database, leading to this error. It can be used to indicate that these specific resources have been permanently eliminated from the site.
Content Removal:
As the trends change continuously, Web owners have to update their content as well Constantly. So they may remove obsolete or irrelevant content from their websites that can cause this error. With the 410 error code, they can inform both the search engines and their users that they removed the specific content. It helps to maintain the integrity of the Google search console.
Discontinue a Product or Service :
The 410 HTTP Gone error code can also be put intentionally. As in the case of e-commerce or service-oriented websites, the products or services or the sale on a particular product, URL will only be available for a certain period and discontinued after some time. The 410 error is utilized to indicate that these offers were taken down and are no longer available.
However, It’s important to keep in mind that the 410 error is a deliberate action taken by the server or website owner to tell its users and search engines that the resource is no longer available.
What does 410 mean to its Users?
The HTTP 410 error code brings the following implications to users,
- The error tells users that the requested resource has been permanently removed from the server. Whether it’s a web page URL, file, or others that can not be accessible in the future, eliminating any expectation of its return.
- Unlike temporary errors like the 404 error, the 410 error indicates that the resource is gone for good.
- The 410 error prompts users to move to alternative sources for the information they search for. It enables them to find more up-to-date content or relevant resources that fulfill their needs.
In summary, this error guides users that a requested resource has been permanently removed. Also, prompts them to look for alternative up-to-date information sources and facilitates a more efficient browsing experience.
Differentiating the 410 error from the 404 error code
As we have discussed above What does 410 mean but we didn’t discuss much about what 404 error is?
I hope you’re familiar with error 404 “Not Found”. Because at some point every person has faced it. However, it appears when you try to visit a page that doesn’t exist or mistype a wrong URL, then you’ll often end up at a committed and well-designed error page “Not Found”. However, error 404 isn’t a permanent state. For example, it appears when a particular web page is temporarily down or unavailable. But, if you try again after a while, the page might start working.
While distinguishing the HTTP 410 error from the 404 error code, it is worth Knowing, what does 410 mean? However, it explicitly represents a permanent removal of resources, whereas the 404 error suggests a temporary or potentially mistyped URL. it might seem a tiny difference, but when it comes to search engines, backlinks, and crawlers the distinction is crucial for both search engines and users, as it guides the appropriate actions to be taken. A 410 error indicates that the resource will not be returning, eliminating the need for further inquiries or attempts to access it.
How can you fix the 410 Gone Error Code?
After a detailed discussion of what does 410 mean? Below, we have mentioned some methods to resolve the HTTP 410 error while assuming that you have not put it on your website with your consent. If you did not configure any redirects and visitors are using the correct URLs, then it may be due to your site or server’s configuration.
Fortunately, it is something that can be fixed. There are multiple methods to address the problem and restore your website’s functionality, Some of them are given below
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Disabling your Site’s Plugins Via WordPress
Many WordPress plugins can trigger HTTP 410 error code on your site. Ordinarily, they are plugins that can alter your web page’s URL structures or enable you to set up redirects. Before starting the fixation, you should know the terms like what does 410 mean? and what can cause the HTTP 410 error code? The Page Not Found error heads toward the permanent removal of the resource and multiple reasons can cause this error. However, 410 error codes can also appear due to common compatibility problems. To troubleshoot the HTTP error 410 related to plugins on your WordPress site, follow these steps:
- Before making any changes, create your website’s backup to ensure data safety.
- Access your WordPress admin panel. Usually, the 410 error does not restrict access to the admin area.
- Go to the “Plugins” tab and disable any security or redirection plugins you have installed. There are chances that these kinds of plugins can exploit your URL’s structures and lead to 410 errors.
- If the error endures, then it’s time to disable all plugins at once to determine the root cause. Now select all active plugins by checking the checkbox next to them.
- From the “Bulk Actions” drop-down menu, choose “Deactivate” and click the “Apply” button. This will deactivate all selected plugins simultaneously, which may temporarily impact your website’s functionality.
- Now, check if the error still appears. If it is gone, then it is confirmed that one of the plugins was causing the 410 error.
- Reactivate each disabled plugin individually, and constantly test your website after activating each plugin. This will help identify the specific plugin responsible for the error.
- Once you identify the problematic plugin, you can safely delete it to resolve the issue. However, if the plugin is vital, search for an alternative plugin or contact a developer for assistance or a possible fix to your problem.
Re-installing the WordPress Core Files
If the previous method did not resolve the 410 Gone error code on your WordPress site, there might be an issue with the WordPress core files. However, these files play a vital role in the appropriate functioning of WordPress. Corruption or improper configuration of these files can lead to multiple similar errors. So it is important to know What does 410 mean? to differentiate it from others. Therefore, You’ll have to reinstall your WordPress core files to fix this. Follow the given steps to re-install your WordPress core files
- First, make sure that you have made a recent backup of your website for safety.
- Now access your WordPress admin dashboard.
- Go to the “Dashboard” menu and click on “Updates.”
- Search for a message stating that you have the latest version of WordPress. Under this message, you will see a “Re-install Now” button.
- Click on the “Re-install Now” button. The re-installation process initiates. WordPress will download and install the latest version of the CMS.
- Once the re-installation is complete, check if the HTTP error 410 persists on your website.
If you do not see the “Re-install Now” button, it usually indicates, An update is available for WordPress. In that case, proceed with updating WordPress to the latest version. After Updating, start the re-installation process.
Re-installing the WordPress core files can help fix any potential issues related to corruption or misconfiguration. However, it is always advisable, you should create a backup file of your site before performing such actions.