creating 404 error pages

[Stoddard]

When you create a website, are you able to create your own 404 error pages as well? What are the important elements to have in a 404?

[suwunk]

Yes, You can! check this out!
http://myhosting.com/wiki/Customized_404_Error_Page

Content of a 404 Error Page
A 404 response code is always followed by a human readable reason phrase as per the HTTP specification. Generally, a web server issues an HTML page that has the 404 code and the “Not Found” phrase by default. You can configure a web server to display a branded page with a better description and a search form. But the protocol level phrase requires no customization as it is hidden from the user.

404 Error Pages

[greenmatter]

i usually use a template of the site intact with navigation, almost like a sitemap page and in the body area I include 404 message. This will allow the user to navigate anywhere on my site from the 404 page instead of leaving the site.