The issue with unindexed Core MVC websites
In a recent Google Office Hours Q&A session, a concern was brought up by an individual regarding their website’s seemingly unindexed status. They had built their site using the Core MVC framework and published it with HTTPS protocol, only to face issues related to indexing. Despite these efforts, the website owner found that their site was not appearing in Google’s search results, which can negatively impact traffic and online visibility. In response to this concern, Google’s John Mueller provided some invaluable insights and potential solutions for those facing similar indexing issues with their Core MVC websites.
John Mueller’s findings and recommendation
Upon looking into the matter, Google’s John Mueller discovered that the site was indeed indexed; however, it was without the “www” subdomain. As a result, searches for the “www” version of the site produced limited outcomes, whereas searching for the domain by itself led to the indexed content. This highlights the importance of ensuring that both the “www” and non-“www” versions of a website are correctly indexed and linked to one another. To avoid such issues in the future, it is vital for webmasters to accurately configure their domains and verify their indexing status within the Google Search Console.
Adopting a comprehensive approach to problem-solving
This incident emphasizes the need for problem-solvers to not restrict their efforts to apparent factors or likely causes. Instead, it highlights the importance of adopting a more comprehensive approach, taking into consideration all potential variables and root causes when addressing complex issues. It is crucial for problem-solvers to think outside the box, employing critical thinking skills and embracing innovative solutions to prevent similar situations from occurring in the future.
Understanding the distinction between “www” and non-“www” versions of a website
Furthermore, it brings attention to the fact that the “www” version of a website is technically a subdomain of its non-www counterpart. This distinction is crucial as it highlights the importance of consistency in web addresses, ensuring a seamless user experience across all platforms. In addition to fostering better user navigation, maintaining a consistent web address also contributes to improved search engine optimization (SEO) for the website.
Implementing best practices for domain configurations
To address the indexing issue discovered by John Mueller, it is essential for webmasters to implement the following best practices:
1. Ensure that both the “www” and non-“www” versions of a website are correctly indexed by Google by configuring the domain settings within a hosting or domain provider account.
2. Use the Google Search Console to verify indexing status and identify any errors or inconsistencies within your website structure. Regular monitoring of the Search Console can help detect indexing issues at an early stage, allowing for prompt rectification.
3. Opt for either the “www” version or the non-“www” version of a domain as the preferred site URL and apply a 301 redirect to ensure that all traffic is directed to the selected version. This not only contributes to a smoother user experience but also helps consolidate SEO efforts.
4. Configure the website’s sitemap to include both “www” and non-“www” URLs, ensuring that search engines are aware of the preferred version.
Considering the impact on SEO and user experience
This incident serves as a reminder that seemingly minor issues, such as the use of a “www” subdomain, can have significant implications for a website’s search engine rankings and user experience. By adopting the best practices discussed above, webmasters can mitigate the risk of such problems arising in the future, ensuring better online visibility and a seamless browsing experience for their site’s visitors.
First Reported on: searchenginejournal.com
FAQs – The Issue with Unindexed Core MVC Websites
What was the issue raised regarding the Core MVC website?
An individual brought up a concern regarding their website’s seemingly unindexed status in Google search results, despite using Core MVC framework and HTTPS protocol, which could negatively impact traffic and online visibility.
What did John Mueller discover about the indexing issue?
John Mueller found that the site was indexed, but it was without the “www” subdomain. As a result, searches for the “www” version of the site produced limited outcomes, whereas searching for the domain by itself led to the indexed content.
Why is it important to ensure proper indexing of both “www” and non-“www” versions of a website?
Maintaining consistency in web addresses ensures a seamless user experience across all platforms and contributes to improved search engine optimization (SEO) for the website.
What are some best practices for domain configurations?
Some best practices for domain configuration include ensuring proper indexing of the “www” and non-“www” versions, using Google Search Console to verify indexing status, opting for either the “www” or non-“www” version as the preferred site URL, and configuring the website’s sitemap to include both versions.
What impact can minor issues like the use of a “www” subdomain have on SEO and user experience?
Seemingly minor issues, such as the use of a “www” subdomain, can have significant implications for a website’s search engine rankings and user experience. By adopting best practices, webmasters can mitigate the risk of such problems arising in the future, ensuring better online visibility and a seamless browsing experience for their site’s visitors.
