Registering a website with Google is a crucial step for establishing an online presence and ensuring visibility in search results. The process has evolved, and currently requires a Google account and utilization of Google Search Console. While previously a simpler submission process existed, Google discontinued direct URL submission due to misuse. This article details the current methods for registering a website with Google, the benefits of doing so, and troubleshooting steps if indexing does not occur, based on available documentation.
The data indicates that approximately two-thirds of all internet searches worldwide are conducted through Google, making a presence in Google’s search results fundamental for online success. Websites are only found through the search engine if they are listed in Google’s index. Registration allows website owners to monitor performance, identify issues, and optimize content.
Creating a Google Account and Accessing Google Search Console
The first step in registering a website with Google is creating or accessing an existing Google account. The provided materials state the process is straightforward and free of charge. Once a Google account is established, users can access Google Search Console at https://search.google.com/search-console. Google Search Console provides tools to control how a website interacts with Google Search.
Adding a Property in Google Search Console
Within Google Search Console, website owners must “add a property.” Two options are available: Domain and URL prefix. The Domain option requires entering the root domain (e.g., example.com) and covers all subdomains and protocols (HTTP and HTTPS). The URL prefix option allows specifying a particular URL (e.g., https://www.example.com/page).
Benefits of Using Google Search Console
Google Search Console offers several benefits for website owners. These include the ability to get content indexed by Google through sitemap submission and individual URL submissions. The URL Inspection Tool allows checking how Google views a specific URL, including its indexing status and last crawl date. Reports on mobile usability are also available, assisting in ensuring a website is mobile-friendly. Regular monitoring and utilization of these features can enhance a website’s visibility, user experience, and search ranking.
Submitting a Sitemap to Google
After registering a website, submitting a sitemap is recommended. A sitemap systematically informs Google’s crawling system about new web pages and provides metadata to help crawlers react more quickly to changes and errors. There are three methods for submitting a sitemap: including a sitemap declaration in the robots.txt file (Sitemap: [myDomain.com]/my_sitemap.xml), or allowing Google to find it during a crawl.
Verifying Indexing and Troubleshooting
After submitting a website and sitemap, it is important to verify that Google has indexed the site. The site: search operator (e.g., site:www.yourdomain.com) can be used to display all indexed URLs for a specific domain in Google search results. If the site search fails to yield results despite submission, potential technical issues should be investigated. The robots.txt file, the HTML meta tag "nofollow," and the canonical tag are identified as potential causes of indexing failures.
Indexing Timeframes
Indexing times can vary. It typically takes a few days to a few weeks for Google to index new sites or changes, depending on factors such as site structure, content, and crawl frequency.
Registering Android Apps with Google
The documentation also notes that if a business has an Android app, it can be submitted to Google via Search Console. This requires publishing the app to the Google Play Store and signing in to Search Console with a Google Play account possessing administrative rights to the app. The app’s root URI (e.g., com.[package name].app) is then entered into Search Console.
Bing and Yahoo! Registration
While Google dominates search, the materials suggest registering with Bing and Yahoo! is also worthwhile, as they collectively hold a portion of the search market. Bing and Yahoo! have a joint advertising network, meaning registration with one covers both. This process requires creating a Microsoft account and utilizing Bing Webmaster Tools.
Conclusion
Registering a website with Google, and potentially Bing and Yahoo!, is a fundamental step for online visibility. Utilizing Google Search Console provides tools for monitoring performance, submitting sitemaps, and troubleshooting indexing issues. While indexing times vary, proactive registration and monitoring are essential for maximizing a website’s potential reach. The process requires a Google account and careful attention to detail when adding a property and submitting a sitemap.
Sources
- https://themeisle.com/blog/submit-website-to-google/
- https://marketinghubdaily.com/how-to-register-your-website-in-google-search-console-a-step-by-step-guide/
- https://www.ionos.com/digitalguide/websites/website-creation/registering-a-website-submitting-urls-to-google/