How to fix indexing and redirect issues on Blogger.
Indexing and redirect issues often pose challenges for Blogger users who are aiming to improve their site's visibility. This guide provides actionable solutions with systematic steps to effectively resolve these issues.
1. Understanding Indexing and Redirect Issues
What is Indexing?
Indexing is the process by which search engines add your website pages to their databases, making them eligible to appear in search results.
What are Redirect Issues?
Redirect issues occur when URLs fail to resolve correctly, often caused by errors in tools like Google Search Console (GSC). This can prevent search engines from accessing your pages properly.
2. Common Problems and Solutions
2.1 Using the Google Indexing API for Blogs
The Claim: Some users recommend the Google Indexing API for quick page indexing.
The Reality: The Google Indexing API is intended for job postings and live streams, as per Google guidelines. Using it for normal blogs violates these rules and could lead to penalties.
Best Practice: Stick to legitimate indexing methods, such as submitting sitemaps and URLs through GSC.
2.2 URLs Not Indexing After Submission
The Problem: Even after submitting URLs in GSC, some pages remain unindexed.
The Solution:
Use Alternate URL Formats: Add?m=1
(mobile version) to the URL and submit both formats:
Desktop:https://yourblog.blogspot.com/post-title
Mobile:https://yourblog.blogspot.com/post-title?m=1
Optimize Internal Linking: Ensure a robust internal linking structure to make pages discoverable by crawlers. Ensure a robust internal linking structure to make pages discoverable by crawlers.
2.3 Robots.txt Blocking URLs
The Problem: Submitting URLs with ?m=1
results in the message: “URL blocked by robots.txt.”
The Solution:
-
Check Robots.txt File:
Update your robots.txt file to allow access to mobile URLs:
User-agent: * Allow: /?m=1 Disallow: /search Sitemap: https://yourblog.blogspot.com/sitemap.xml Sitemap: https://yourblog.blogspot.com/atom.xml
-
Submit Updated Sitemaps:
Resubmit both
sitemap.xml
andatom.xml
in GSC for better coverage.
2.4 Redirect Errors
The Problem: GSC shows "redirect error" when submitting URLs.
The Solution:
- Diagnose Using URL Inspection Tool: Use GSC's inspection tool to identify and fix unnecessary redirects.
- Set Correct Canonical Tags: Specify the preferred version (desktop or mobile) using canonical tags in your HTML. Blogger usually handles this automatically, but ensure it's configured correctly.
3. Example Link Formats for Submission
Submit both formats in GSC to improve indexing chances:
Without Mobile Suffix:https://yourblog.blogspot.com/post-title
With Mobile Suffix:https://yourblog.blogspot.com/post-title?m=1
4. Advanced Tips for Faster Indexing
4.1 Publish Quality Content
High-quality, original content attracts search engine crawlers.
4.2 Build Backlinks
Encourage external sites to link to your content for improved authority.
4.3 Fix Crawl Errors
Regularly check GSC for crawl issues and resolve them promptly.
4.4 Use URL Inspection Tool
Request indexing via GSC’s "Inspect URL" feature to expedite crawling.
5. FAQs from the Community
Q1: Does adding ?m=1
still work for indexing?
Yes, it works for many users, but ensure that your robots.txt file permits access to mobile URLs.
Q2: Why does "URL blocked by robots.txt" occur?
This happens if the robots.txt file is misconfigured. Ensure it allows ?m=1
URLs.
Q3: Why does GSC show "redirect error"?
This error occurs due to incorrect redirection setups or canonical tag conflicts. Check your site’s settings and resubmit the preferred version.
Q4: Why isn’t my sitemap appearing for mobile URLs?
This happens if the robots.txt file is misconfigured. Ensure it allows ?m=1
URLs.
6. Conclusion
Resolving indexing and redirect issues requires systematic troubleshooting and adherence to Google’s guidelines. Focus on:
- Submitting both desktop and mobile URLs.
- Updating robots.txt to allow necessary access.
- Monitoring crawl errors and fixing them promptly.
So, the important thing is: A well-maintained site structure and consistent SEO practices will ensure your Blogger site is indexed effectively.
How to Fix Indexing Issues in Blogspot or Blogger