What is the 410 Status Code in HTTP?

The HTTP 410 status code, known as “Gone,” indicates that the requested resource is no longer available on the server and has been permanently removed. Unlike the 404 status code, which signifies that a resource cannot be found, the 410 status code explicitly states that the resource will not return.

For instance, if a webpage is intentionally removed and will not be restored, the server may respond with a 410 status code to inform clients and search engines of its permanent absence.

What Causes the 410 Status Code?

The 410 status code typically occurs in scenarios such as:

1. Intentional Resource Removal:
   
   • Resources, such as outdated content or discontinued products, are permanently deleted from the server.
2. Expired Content:
   
   • Time-sensitive content, like event pages or promotional offers, has expired and is no longer relevant.
3. Website Restructuring:
   
   • Pages are removed as part of a redesign or content consolidation without providing a redirect.
4. Content Deprecation:
   
   • Deprecated API endpoints or features are permanently retired.

Example of the 410 Status Code in Action

Imagine an online store that discontinues a product and removes its webpage. If a user attempts to access https://example.com/products/item123, the server responds with a 410 status code to indicate that the product page is gone and will not return.

How to Fix or Manage the 410 Status Code

While the 410 status code signals the intentional removal of a resource, managing it properly is essential to maintaining user experience and SEO. Here are some strategies:

1. Use 301 Redirects When Possible:
   
   • Redirect users to relevant pages, such as similar products or updated content, to retain traffic.
2. Provide a Custom 410 Page:
   
   • Create a user-friendly message explaining the resource’s removal and offering navigation options or related links.
3. Update Internal and External Links:
   
   • Replace or remove broken links pointing to the deprecated resource.
4. Notify Search Engines:
   
   • Allow search engines to update their indexes by returning a 410 status code for permanently removed pages.
5. Document Resource Removal:
   
   • For APIs or public resources, update documentation to notify users of the resource’s removal and suggest alternatives.

Why a Web Development Agency Matters

A professional website design and development agency can assist in managing deprecated resources effectively. They can implement 410 responses, create custom error pages, and ensure proper redirection strategies to minimise disruptions and maintain SEO performance.

FAQs on the 410 Status Code

What does the 410 status code mean?

The 410 status code indicates that the requested resource has been permanently removed and will not return.

How does the 410 status code differ from the 404 status code?

The 404 status code signifies that a resource cannot be found but may return, while the 410 status code explicitly states that the resource is permanently gone.

How can I fix a 410 status code?

Use 301 redirects to direct users to related content, update internal and external links, and create a custom 410 page to guide users.

Does the 410 status code affect SEO?

Yes, the 410 status code helps search engines understand that a resource is permanently removed, preventing unnecessary crawling and indexing.

When should I use the 410 status code?

Use the 410 status code for intentionally removed resources that will not return, such as expired content or deprecated features.

Can 410 errors be prevented?

While 410 errors indicate intentional removal, they can be mitigated by using redirects and updating links to minimise user frustration.

By understanding and implementing the 410 status code effectively, you can manage deprecated resources responsibly, ensuring a better user experience and maintaining your website’s SEO performance.