What is the effect of broken links on user experience?

Broken links negatively impact user experience because they lead to dead ends for visitors trying to access content. When a user clicks on a link expecting to find valuable information or resources and encounters a 404 error or a similar message, it can create feelings of frustration and disappointment. This experience can cause users to leave the site in search of a more reliable source, thereby increasing bounce rates and potentially losing valuable traffic and conversions.

A well-functioning website should provide seamless navigation and access to its content, which broken links disrupt. Ensuring that all links are working optimally is important for maintaining user satisfaction and trust, as users are more likely to return to a site that consistently delivers a good experience.