: 404 code/header for search engines, on removed user content? I just got an email, from a former user on my website He was complaining that Google still shows the contact page he created on

@Alves908

Google actually prefers 404 pages when pages no longer exist. There was a bit of a campaign waged by Google to replace redirects with 404 errors. But that whole effort rather fell flat. Thankfully.

In a traditional sense, when a page is removed, the web server issues a 404 error. I worked with CMS software a long time ago, and this was also true then. If your CMS or blog software gives you options, I would say use a 301 to save valuable traffic only if and when another valid page exists and would satisfy the user. Otherwise present a 404 error (at least- read on).

As for any existing 404 page, it can take sometime for Google to fetch the page and update the index. A 404 error is seen as temporary. For this reason, Google will fetch the page repeatedly over a period of time to ensure that the page is truly gone. If you want a more immediate effect, then use a 410 Gone error if this is an option. How long does it take for Google to give up fetching a removed page with a 404 error? I have no idea. But I can say, do not respond to 404 errors in Google Webmaster Tools for pages that have been removed.

With a 410 Gone error, Google will remove the page immediately. I suggest just being patient and keep the 404 error. It is easier.

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