Forum Discussion

Lalrinmawia's avatar
Lalrinmawia
Copper Contributor
Oct 20, 2025

How can I create a custom redirect page in SharePoint Online for broken links or access issues?

Hi everyone,

I want to improve the user experience in SharePoint Online when users encounter link access issues, broken links, or caching problems. Ideally, users should be automatically redirected to a custom page that:

  • Explains why the link might not work (e.g., permissions, broken link, cache issues)
  • Provides instructions for resolving the issue (like clearing browser cache)
  • Includes navigation back to the home page or IT support

Can this be configured directly within the Microsoft 365/SharePoint Online environment, or would it require custom scripting, Power Automate, or other solutions?
Any guidance or best practices would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks!

accessibility
Permissions
SharePoint Online
Sites

1 Reply

  • LucaHeller's avatar
    LucaHeller
    Copper Contributor
    Oct 20, 2025

    1. Create a Custom “Help / Error” Page

    First, build the page you want users to land on:

    Go to your Site Pages library.
    Create a new modern page, e.g., /sites/Portal/SitePages/AccessHelp.aspx.
    Include:
    Explanation of common causes (permissions, cache, broken link)
    Instructions to fix (e.g., “Press Ctrl+F5 to refresh”)
    A button to go back to the Home Page
    Contact IT/Support link or form (can link to a Microsoft Form or email)

    Tip: Give it a friendly title like “Having trouble opening this page?”

     2. Handle “Broken Link” Redirects (404-style)

    For broken or outdated URLs:

    Option A – Site Redirect Rules (Native)

    If the missing links are known or predictable:

    Go to Site Settings → Navigation → Search and Offline Availability (classic admin center).
    Use Redirects via site redirection mapping — available if your site uses the Publishing Feature (classic experience).
    Example: redirect /oldpage.aspx → /SitePages/AccessHelp.aspx.

     Limitation: This works only for specific URLs, not a generic catch-all.

    Option B – Redirect via Azure Front Door or CDN (Advanced)

    If your SharePoint is fronted by an Azure Front Door or Reverse Proxy, you can configure a rewrite/redirect rule:

    Match 404 responses → redirect to /SitePages/AccessHelp.aspx.
    This requires admin control outside SharePoint (via Azure).

    This approach gives full control but is only viable for larger organizations or intranets using custom domains.

Resources