Add a custom 404 page — Windsurf

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Using Windsurf Cascade, apply these edits across the project in one pass:

Add a custom 404 page

1. Create a custom 404 page that helps users navigate back to working pages.

Why this matters

Common mistakes to avoid

• error_outlineReturning 200 status for the 404 page — creates "soft 404" and confuses Google.
• error_outlineShowing only "Not Found" with no helpful links or search.
• error_outlineMissing the 404 status header even if the page is correct.

How to verify the fix worked

• check_circle`curl -I https://yoursite.com/nonexistent` returns 404 status.
• check_circleVisit a non-existent URL — branded 404 with search and links.
• check_circleGoogle Search Console → Not Found report — no "soft 404" flags.

Frequently asked questions