What is the purpose of a broken link in web design?

A broken link serves to indicate that there is an error on a page. When a link is broken, it means that the resource it points to is unavailable, whether because the URL is incorrect, the webpage has been removed, or the server is down. In web design, it's important to recognize and address broken links, as they can lead to a frustrating user experience and may suggest that the website is not well-maintained. Identifying broken links helps web developers and administrators maintain the integrity of their site, ensuring that users can find the content they are seeking without interruption.

While other options refer to different functions in web design, they do not correctly describe the role of a broken link. For instance, broken links do not typically serve to redirect users to another site or enhance search engine optimization; in fact, they can negatively impact SEO. Additionally, they do not improve website navigation; rather, they hinder it by preventing users from accessing intended content.