John Mueller, a Google Search Advocate, offers website owners guidance on penalties, content best practices, and HTTP status codes.
Google does not impose penalties on websites solely for displaying 404 status codes.
Regarding SEO impact, the distinction between 404 and 410 status codes is minimal.
John Mueller, a Search Advocate at Google, provides these valuable insights.

In a recent conversation on the r/SEO Reddit forum, insights from Google’s Search Advocate, John Mueller, shed light on website penalties and the utilization of HTTP status codes.
Mueller tackled inquiries posed by a website proprietor who had previously employed AI to create content for their videogame guide website. After deciding to remove roughly 200 AI-generated pages due to apprehensions, the proprietor sought counsel on potential recovery strategies. This dialogue prompted an exploration of the intricacies between HTTP status codes 404 and 410, signifying missing or permanently deleted web pages.
Mueller’s responses clarified Google’s approach, underscoring pragmatic considerations over theoretical discrepancies in SEO practices.

Exploring the Impact of AI Content Creation on Game Guide Websites

The dialogue was initiated with a website owner who acknowledged using AI technologies, including GPT, to generate content for older games featured on their longstanding game guide website.
The owner openly admitted, “I did experiment with using GPT to produce game guides for older games that I haven’t personally played to enhance the site’s content and leverage its established authority.”
Following a brief period of positive outcomes, apprehensions emerged, leading to roughly 200 AI-generated pages being removed. As they confront the aftermath, they inquire, “I’m curious if others have experienced similar situations and if this action has typically been adequate for witnessing some form of recovery?”

Navigating the Nuances of 404 Status Codes: Insights from John Mueller

In a Reddit discussion, concerns were raised about potential penalties stemming from 404 status codes, signaling a webpage’s unavailability.
However, Mueller promptly addressed the matter, stating, “Google does not penalize for 404s (though those pages do drop out of the index).

Deciphering SEO: Comparing 404 and 410 Status Codes

In a follow-up inquiry, there was curiosity about the potential SEO impact of employing a 410 status code, signaling a permanent absence of a resource instead of a 404.
Mueller confirmed that the disparities between the two are inconsequential from an SEO standpoint: “It doesn’t matter. The difference in processing of 404 vs. 410 is so minimal that I can’t think of any time I’d prefer one for SEO purposes.” While he acknowledged the theoretical correctness of utilizing the appropriate status code, he emphasized prioritizing practical considerations.

Adding a Playful Twist: Mueller’s Closing Remarks

In a light-hearted conclusion, Mueller anticipated the attention his remarks might garner:
“And I realize that writing this out now will trigger another cycle of needless attention—or is it needless? Hi, Mom. I would like to thank the academy for the honor of being here. Support the Women in Tech SEO group. Floss.”

Understanding SEJ’s Interest: Mueller’s Insights on Navigating Core Updates and HTTP Status Codes

Amidst the ongoing rollout of the March core update, Mueller’s insights become particularly pertinent. He offers valuable guidance on mitigating potential demotions and adhering to best practices. His remarks on HTTP status codes present a pragmatic framework for addressing missing or deleted web pages.
With this understanding, SEO professionals can navigate their strategies more confidently and precisely.

Empowering Your Approach: Leveraging Mueller’s Advice

Mueller’s guidance is a valuable starting point for individuals encountering similar challenges.
Website owners can actively strive to regain their search engine visibility by following these best practices and promptly resolving potential issues.

Consider exploring our monthly SEO packages if you still need clarification and guidance. Let our team of experts help you through the process.