Understanding HTTP 410 Code: definition and operation

HTTP codes are a means of communication between web servers and browsers, allowing them to indicate whether the requested actions have been carried out successfully or whether errors have occurred.

One of these codes is the HTTP Code 410which we will explain in detail in this article.

What is HTTP 410 Code?

HTTP 410 Code, also known as Gone" is a web server response which indicates that a page or resource requested by the browser has been permanently removed from the server, with no possibility of finding it via another address. This code should only be used when the disappearance of the resource is intentional and permanent.

This code should not be confused with HTTP Code 404 (Not Found), which simply means that the requested resource is not available at the given address, but could possibly be found elsewhere.

How the HTTP protocol works in relation to Code 410

Stages in the dialogue between server and browser

The dialogue between the web server and the browser generally takes place in the following stages:

The browser sends a request to the server to access a specific page or resource.
The server analyses the request and checks whether the page or resource requested is available.
If the requested resource is present and accessible, the server returns an HTTP 200 code (to indicate that everything is working normally) and sends the requested page or resource to the browser.
Otherwise, the server returns a specific error code to indicate why the request cannot be honoured. HTTP Code 410 is one of these error codes.

Error management: the emergence of Code 410

When a web server encounters an error when searching for or processing a requested resource, it returns an appropriate error code to inform the browser of the problem. These error codes are grouped into different categories:

Errors in the 400 series (such as HTTP Code 410) are errors caused by problems on the client side (incorrect request, incorrect address, etc.).
Errors in the 500 range are errors due to server-side problems (internal error, resource not implemented, etc.).

These error messages allow the user to understand that something is not working properly, and can also provide information on how to solve the problem.

Possible causes of Code 410 and SEO consequences

Technical errors

A possible cause of Code 410 is a technical error when deleting or moving a web page or resource on the server. This could be a problem with access rights, an incorrectly named file or a misconfiguration of internal links, for example.

Voluntary actions and SEO consequences

The HTTP 410 code can also be intentionally generated by website administrators to indicate that certain pages have been permanently removed. There can be various reasons for this:

Change of content strategy
Updating out-of-date or inaccurate information
Compliance with copyrights or licences

In such cases, it is important to take corrective action to minimise the impact on the environment. SEO referencing :

Use an HTTP 301 (Moved Permanently) code for redirects to similar or updated pages
Create personalised error pages that guide users to other relevant content
Provide a clear explanation of the reason for deleting the page if possible

How do I repair a 410 error?

To repair a 410 error encountered on your websiteYou can follow the steps below:

Check that the requested page or resource has been intentionally and permanently removed. If this is not the case, restore access to the page or correct the links leading to it.
If the disappearance is deliberate, configure redirects (HTTP 301) to similar or updated pages where possible.
Make sure your site has customised error pages to guide users through any problems.
Implement a content management and technical monitoring strategy to avoid unintentional HTTP 410 errors in the future.

By following these tips, you should be able to resolve the 410 error and minimise its impact on theuser experience and the referencing of your website.