I created a custom 404 error message and it works when I go to the html page, why do I still see the generic page when I go to a bad URL on my site?

If you are using Internet Explorer you will want to update your browser settings to allow you to view custom error messages. To do this you will want to select "Tools" then "Internet Options". In the "Advanced" tab you want to uncheck the box for "Show friendly HTTP error messages".