How to Create and Connect a Custom 404 Page in Squarespace 7.1 (Step-by-Step Tutorial)

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What is a 404 page?

A 404 page appears whenever a visitor tries to access a page that does not exist on your website.

Why should you create a custom 404 page in Squarespace?

A custom 404 page improves both user experience and search engine performance by helping visitors find what they are looking for and keeping them engaged:

  • Maintain your brand identity and reinforce trust even on error pages

  • Guide visitors back to your homepage or key pages, keeping them on your site longer

  • Reduce bounce rates, which positively influences search rankings

  • Provide navigation links or a search bar to help users find relevant content quickly

  • Showcase creativity or personality, making your site memorable while keeping visitors engaged

In this guide, we’ll show you how to create a custom 404 page in Squarespace 7.1 and connect it in just a few simple steps.

 

STEP 01:

Create a new page under “Not Linked”

From your Squarespace dashboard, go to:

  1. Pages > Scroll down to Not Linked

  2. Click the + icon and select Blank Page

  3. Name the page something like “404” or “404 Page”

How to create & link a custom 404 page: add a page in Unlinked Pages

Example

How to create & link a custom 404 page: name the page
 

STEP 02:

Design your page in the Fluid Engine Builder

A few things to keep in mind:

  • Include clear headline, similar to “Oops, this page does not exist”

  • Include a friendly message or buttons to guide visitors back to your key pages

Example:

 

STEP 03:

Connect your custom 404 Page

To replace the default Squarespace 404 page with your custom design, go to:

  • Pages > Scroll down to System Pages > 404 Page

  • Select your 404 Page from the dropdown

  • Save!

Selecting 404 Page in the Dropdown Settings
 
 

STEP 04:

Test your 404 Page

  1. Open a new browser tab

  2. Enter a URL on your site that does not exist, for example: www.yourwebsite.com/nonexistentpage

  3. Check that your custom 404 page appears and that buttons, links, and navigation elements are all going to the right place.

 

All set!

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* Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. We may earn a commission should you chose to sign up for Squarespace using our link. Affiliate links are a great way to show your support for our content with no additional cost to you!

 

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