SEO Glossary / URL Inspection Tool

URL Inspection Tool

What is the URL Inspection Tool?

The URL Inspection Tool is a feature available in Google Search Console that allows site owners to check the index status of a webpage. It also provides information about the usability and structured data on the webpage.

Features of the URL Inspection Tool

  • Index Status: Check if a webpage is indexed by Google.
  • Usability Information: Assess the mobile usability and other user experience aspects of the webpage.
  • Structured Data: View details about structured data and how Google interprets it.
  • Request Indexing: Site owners can request Google to index the webpage.

Accessing the URL Inspection Tool

The URL Inspection Tool is exclusive to Google and can be accessed only by the site owner through their Google Search Console account.

How to Use the URL Inspection Tool

  1. Log into Google Search Console:

  2. Enter the URL:

    • At the top-center area of the page, you will see the URL inspection field. Enter the URL you want to inspect.
  3. Check the Status:

    • Click Enter on your keyboard. Google Search Console will return with the index status and other information about the webpage.

Example of Using the URL Inspection Tool

  1. Log into your Google Search Console account.
  2. Enter the URL (e.g., https://yourdomain.com/page-to-check) into the URL inspection field.
  3. Press Enter to submit the URL.
  4. Review the Results:
    • Google Search Console will display the index status, indicating whether the page is indexed.
    • Additional information will include usability details, structured data, and any detected issues.

Benefits of the URL Inspection Tool

  • Quick Diagnosis: Easily identify if a webpage is indexed and find out why it might not be.
  • Immediate Feedback: Get real-time information about how Google sees your webpage.
  • Improve SEO: Use the insights to make necessary adjustments to improve the page's indexing and overall SEO performance.
  • Request Indexing: Promptly request Google to index newly updated or newly created webpages.

Conclusion

The URL Inspection Tool in Google Search Console is an essential feature for site owners to monitor and manage the indexing status and overall performance of their webpages. By using this tool, you can ensure that your content is properly indexed and optimized for search engine visibility.

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