What it means
The browser receives an accurate missing-page status even when the website displays a designed message and navigation.
Term in plain language
404 response
An HTTP server response confirming that the requested resource was not found at that address.
Why it matters
A correct 404 prevents empty or removed URLs from looking like valid 200 pages to search engines.
Example
A removed product with no suitable replacement returns 404 and offers a link to the current category.
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