Scenario 1: The URL Shouldn't Be Redirecting
If a page is redirecting unintentionally, it’s crucial to remove the redirection to maintain proper indexing and user experience.
- Identify the issue: Use Google Search Console to pinpoint the affected URLs.
- Determine the redirect type: Understand if it’s a 301 (permanent) or 302 (temporary) redirect.
- Remove the redirect: The method to remove a redirect depends on your website’s setup. It might involve editing .htaccess files, using plugins (for WordPress), or making changes in your server configuration.
- Update internal links: Ensure no other pages on your website link to the previously redirected URL.
- Submit the fixed URL to Google: Use the URL Inspection tool in Search Console to request indexing of the corrected page.
Scenario 2: The URL is Redirecting Intentionally
If the redirect is planned, such as redirecting a www domain and HTTP website to non-www and HTTPS URLs or applying other redirects to direct 404 URLs to relevant pages, it’s usually safe to leave it as is. However, ensure it’s set up correctly.
- Verify redirect type: A 301 redirect is typically used for permanent moves, while a 302 is for temporary ones. Ensure the type matches your intent.
- Check redirect destination: Confirm the URL the page is redirecting to is correct and accessible.
Scenario 3: Remove Internal Links to Redirect URLs
If you have internal links pointing to pages that now redirect, it can create confusion for both users and search engines.
- Identify the redirecting URLs: Use Google Search Console or real time site audit reporting tools like Ahrefs or SEMrush to find the redirect internal links.
- Update internal links: Replace the links pointing to the redirecting URLs with links to their correct destinations.
By following these steps and carefully considering each scenario, you can effectively address page with redirect issues in Google Search Console and maintain a healthy website structure.
