Introduction to Error 404 on Android
Error 404, commonly known as “Page Not Found” or “File Not Found,” is an HTTP status code indicating that the requested resource could not be found on the server. Although it’s typically seen on websites when a particular page doesn’t exist or has been moved, it can also appear on Android devices while trying to access apps or other online resources.
The error can be caused by a range of factors, from a simple mistyped URL to server-side issues. In most cases, it’s fixable by the end-user on Android devices. In this article, we’ll provide you with actionable tips to resolve Error 404 on Android.
Check the URL and Internet Connection
One of the most basic reasons for encountering Error 404 could be a mistake in the typed URL or a disrupted internet connection. Ensure that you follow these steps before moving on to more complex solutions:
1. Double-check the URL: Make sure the entered URL is correct and doesn’t contain any typos or extra characters. If you’re unsure, try to access it through another device to confirm its correctness.
2. Ensure a stable internet connection: Sometimes, a weak internet connection can cause this error. Check your Wi-Fi or mobile data connection and verify that you’re connected to the internet.
3. Refresh the page: It’s possible that the server might have been temporarily down when the request was made. Try refreshing the page or reopening the app to see if the problem persists.
4. Clear the browser cache: The stored cache and cookies could be causing the error. Go to the settings of the browser app, find the cache and cookies options, and clear them.
Perform a Factory Reset
If you’re still encountering Error 404 across multiple apps and resources, a factory reset might be the solution. Keep in mind that this process will erase all data on your device, so it’s essential to back up important files and contacts before proceeding.
1. Ensure to back up all essential data to an external device or cloud storage.
2. Go to Settings > System > Reset Options > Erase All Data (Factory Reset). The path may vary on different Android devices.
3. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the reset process.
4. After the device restarts, log in with your Google account and restore the backed-up data.
Remove and Re-add Google Account
The error could also be associated with an issue in your Google account. Removing your account and re-adding it can resolve this error in some cases:
1. Go to Settings > Accounts > Google.
2. Tap on your account and select “Remove Account.”
3. Restart your Android device.
4. Go back to Settings > Accounts, and choose “Add Account.”
5. Select “Google” and follow the on-screen instructions to add your account.
Update the Problematic App
If Error 404 is only occurring in a specific app, it could be a bug within the app. Check if there’s an update available in the Google Play Store:
1. Open Google Play Store and tap on the menu icon (three horizontal lines).
2. Select “My apps & games.”
3. Check if there’s an update available for the app experiencing the error. If so, tap “Update” to install the latest version.
Contact the App or Website Developer
Sometimes, the error might be due to an issue on the developer’s end, and it may require their intervention. In such cases, you can contact the app or website developer through their official support channel and report the error. Make sure to provide necessary details, such as the specific URL, error message, and any steps you’ve taken to try to resolve the problem.
Conclusion
The error 404 on Android devices can be frustrating and disruptive, but understanding the underlying causes is critical to finding the right solution. By following the actionable tips provided in this article, you should be able to fix the error and resume your experience with your Android device. However, if you’ve exhausted all the available solutions and still encounter the error, it might be time to seek professional assistance from an Android technician or the manufacturer’s technical support.