Broken links
Broken links are links that lead to non-existent pages or return an error — most commonly a 404 error. For a publisher, broken links mean lost traffic, poor user experience, and reduced revenue.
When a visitor clicks a link and lands on a missing page, they typically leave the site. This increases the bounce rate and lowers conversion rates. In addition, search engines negatively assess websites with a high number of broken links, which can harm SEO rankings.
For website owners, it is essential to regularly audit the site’s link structure and fix errors promptly.
Key Characteristics of Broken Links
- Lead to non-existent pages
- Worsen behavioral metrics
- Reduce conversions and revenue
- Negatively impact SEO performance
- Require regular monitoring
What Are Broken Links in Simple Terms?
A broken link is a link that doesn’t open because the page no longer exists.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can you find broken links on a website?
By using SEO tools, crawlers, and reports in Google Search Console.
Do broken links affect revenue?
Yes. Users may never reach the advertising block or offer page, which reduces monetization.
What should you do with a broken link?
Set up a redirect, restore the missing page, or remove the link entirely.