How to Find 404 Pages in Google Analytics 4 (GA4)?

What Does 404 Error Mean?

A 404 error occurs when a webpage cannot be found on a server. This error appears when users try to access a web page that has been deleted, moved, or never existed. The “404” is an HTTP status code that tells browsers the requested page is not available.

Common causes include mistyped URLs, broken links, or removed content. Users see this error message in their web browsers with text like “Page Not Found” or “404 Error.”

Website owners can create custom 404 pages to help visitors find the correct information and stay on their sites. Many sites now use friendly 404 pages with helpful navigation options.

4 Easy Steps to Find 404 Pages in GA4 (Google Analytics 4)

Google Analytics 4 allows surface 404 errors directly without any tag implementation.

Step 1: Accessing the GA4 Engagement Reports

Step 2: Navigating to the Pages and Screens Report

Step 3: Adding Secondary Dimensions

Further, analyze 404 errors by adding secondary dimensions:

Step 4: Search for the 404 Title

Advanced 404 Error Reporting in GA4

Create custom explorations for detailed 404 analysis.

Step 1: Navigate to Explore

Click on “Explore” in the left-hand navigation panel.

Step 2: Create a New Exploration Report

You can begin a new exploration by clicking on the blank Report marked with a + sign and giving it a name.

Step 3: Set the Dimensions

To add dimensions, click the + icon located next to the dimension tab.

Once done, click the ‘Confirm‘ button to add the dimensions to your exploration.

Step 4: Add Dimensions to the Rows

Double-click or drag the “Page path and screen class” and “Page referrer” dimensions to add them to the Rows box.

Step 5: Set the Metrics

To add metrics, click the + icon located next to the metrics tab.

Step 6: Add Metrics to the Values

Double-click or drag Metrics to add it to the Values box.

Step 7: Add Filters

Move the “Page title” and “Event name” dimensions into the Filter box within the Tab settings panel

Step 8: Setup the Filters

Final Thoughts

Tracking and resolving 404 pages in Google Analytics 4 is essential for maintaining a seamless user experience and protecting your SEO performance. By setting up custom events and reports, you can easily monitor and address broken links, ensuring that visitors stay engaged and search engines continue to rank your site favorably. Regularly analyzing these errors and taking proactive steps—such as implementing redirects and fixing internal links—will help keep your website error-free and user-friendly. By following this guide, you’ll be well-equipped to manage 404 errors efficiently, strengthening your site’s overall health and online presence.

FAQs Related to Finding 404 Pages in Google Analytics 4

What are some common indicators of 404 errors in GA4 reports?

Some common indicators of 404 errors in GA4 reports are page titles like “Page Not Found”, “404”, “Page Error”, etc. The page path dimension can also surface problematic URLs.

How can I track dynamic URLs that change parameters in GA4?

Enable URL query parameter tracking in the GA4 property settings. This allows tracking of URLs with changing parameters, such as ID values.

Why are my 404 errors not showing up in GA4?

Common reasons for 404 errors not showing in GA4 include incorrect tag implementation, fragments blocking tracking, and a lack of URL parameter settings. Debug with GTM Preview and DebugView.

How can I create a custom exploration for 404 errors in GA4?

Use dimensions like page path and referrer along with events metrics. Apply filters for 404 page titles or paths. Custom explorations provide flexible 404 analysis.

What are some alternative ways to detect 404 errors?

Some alternative 404 tracking options include WordPress plugins, SEO tools like Ahrefs and Screaming Frog, and custom analytics platforms like Matomo.