How to Fix URL Indexing and Redirect Errors in Blogger-25
If you're using Blogspot (Blogger) and struggling with indexing or redirect errors, you're not alone. Many bloggers face similar problems and search for a working solution across forums, YouTube, and help articles—often without success. So, it's crucial to understand why this happens and how to resolve it permanently.
Why Blogspot Users Face Indexing Problems
Common issues include delayed indexing, redirect errors, or pages not appearing in Google search results at all. You might have come across questions like:
- Why isn’t my Blogspot post getting indexed?
- How can I make Google crawl my blog?
- Why does the Search Console show a redirect warning?
- How do I fix indexing errors in Blogger?
These questions are common but often unanswered correctly. So, the important thing is to focus on how Blogspot works internally before applying fixes.
Is the Indexing Issue Serious?
While it may seem frustrating, this issue isn’t as complex as it appears. Most indexing errors in Blogspot stem from outdated technology. Once you understand how Blogspot treats desktop and mobile versions, the solution becomes clearer. So, it's crucial to keep this in mind if you're relying on organic traffic or planning to apply for AdSense.
Understanding Blogspot’s System
Blogspot is an older Google-owned platform. While it's still used, it lacks the regular updates seen in platforms like WordPress. Its outdated handling of canonical URLs and mobile versions creates confusion for modern search engines. Know that Blogspot treats URLs with `?m=1` (mobile) and `?m=0` (desktop) differently, which can cause index conflicts.
Modern vs. Old Indexing Methods
Modern indexing relies on canonical tags and responsive design. It ensures that one main URL is indexed regardless of device. Blogspot, however, doesn't fully support this system. It still uses separate URL formats for mobile and desktop, which can confuse bots. So, the important thing is to guide the bots correctly using the right method.
Simple Analogy for Better Understanding
Think of trying to use a smart TV remote on an old television—it won’t work properly. Blogspot behaves similarly. It's built on an older structure that doesn’t respond well to modern SEO and indexing techniques unless properly guided.
Why Modern Canonical Tags May Fail on Blogspot
Using modern canonical tags in a Blogspot theme—especially on a free subdomain—can lead to major issues. These tags confuse search crawlers when combined with the `?m=1` and `?m=0` system. As a result, your articles might not get indexed at all. Understand that applying new tools on outdated platforms often creates mismatches.
Where the Indexing Confusion Begins
The real problem starts when both the mobile and desktop versions of your blog get indexed separately. Blogspot attempts to make the desktop version (`?m=0`) canonical, but if your theme already has a canonical tag, bots receive conflicting instructions. This leads to either redirect errors or Google simply skipping your URL in search results. So, it's essential to fix this before submitting your site to AdSense.
Permanent Fix for Blogspot Indexing Issues
To solve this issue and ensure proper indexing, follow these steps:
- Remove any canonical tags added manually in your theme.
- In your robots.txt file, disallow mobile version indexing by blocking `?m=1`.
- Ensure your sitemap is submitted and updated in Google Search Console.
These steps align Blogspot's structure with modern SEO expectations, increasing your chances of appearing in search results.
Help Others Too
If this guide helped fix your redirect and indexing problems, share it with other bloggers who might be facing the same issue.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Why does Search Console show a redirect error on Blogspot?
Blogspot uses old URL structures like `?m=1` for mobile, and modern canonical tags conflict with that. Bots get confused when both are present, which leads to redirect errors.
2. How do I fix the indexing issue?
- Remove all custom canonical tags from your theme.
- Use robots.txt to disallow indexing of `?m=1` URLs.
- Resubmit your blog sitemap in Google Search Console.
3. Is Blogspot compatible with modern SEO methods?
Not fully. Blogspot works with basic SEO practices, but modern techniques like structured data, advanced canonicalization, and responsive indexing require adjustments.
4. What if my posts still aren’t indexed?
Double-check your robots.txt and theme. Avoid duplicate tags or outdated widgets. Also, make sure your blog has original, useful content that follows AdSense guidelines.
5. Why is it important to fix this before applying for AdSense?
AdSense only approves websites that are properly indexed and offer value. Redirect errors and poor indexing lower your credibility and delay approval.