Indexed Trailing Slash URLs and HTTPS Count Drop on Vercel
Vercel users are facing frustrating issues with Google Search Console regarding URL indexing.Problem 1: Legacy Trailing Slash URLs Still Indexed Before standardizing to non-trailing slash URLs, some pages were indexed with trailing slashes (e.g., example.com/my-post/). Now, all canonical tags, sitemap URLs, and internal links correctly point to the non-trailing slash HTTPS versions (e.g., example.com/my-post). However, the old trailing slash versions are still indexed in Google Search Console."What's the best approach for these legacy indexed trailing slash URLs? Should I use Google Search Console's URL removal tool, or trust the 301 redirects to eventually lead Google to de-index them?" Problem 2: HTTPS Indexed Count Dropped The HTTPS property in Google Search Console initially showed around 14 indexed pages, but this count dropped to just 3. Although new posts are being indexed correctly, older posts that were previously indexed as non-trailing slash HTTPS URLs are not reappearing in the indexed count.This issue persists despite Vercel handling HTTP to HTTPS redirects automatically, and the sitemap containing only non-trailing slash HTTPS URLs.Seeking Advice: For Problem 1, is the URL removal tool advisable for 301-redirecting legacy trailing slash URLs, or is patience the key? For Problem 2, why aren't older, correctly formatted HTTPS pages getting re-indexed after the drop? Could this be linked to Google processing the overall site changes?Any insights for Vercel users experiencing similar Google Search Console indexing behaviors would be greatly appreciated!
AI-Suggested Solution
To address the issue of legacy trailing slash URLs still being indexed, it is advisable to implement 301 redirects for these URLs to ensure that search engines are directed to the correct non-trailing slash versions. Additionally, using Google Search Console's URL removal tool can expedite the de-indexing process for outdated URLs, especially if the redirects are not yielding immediate results. For the drop in indexed HTTPS pages, it is essential to monitor the indexing status regularly and ensure that the sitemap is up-to-date and accurately reflects the current URL structure. Patience may be necessary as Google processes these changes, but proactive monitoring and adjustments can help restore the indexed count over time.
AI Research Summary
The challenges faced by Vercel users regarding Google Search Console indexing issues are multifaceted, particularly concerning legacy trailing slash URLs and the drop in indexed HTTPS pages. Many users report that despite implementing 301 redirects for legacy URLs, the old trailing slash versions remain indexed, leading to confusion and frustration 46. This situation is exacerbated by the importance of maintaining a clean sitemap, which is crucial for effective indexing 3. The prevalence of 404 errors and improper URL formatting can significantly impact a site's SEO performance, as highlighted in various sources 12.Technical mechanisms behind these issues often stem from the way search engines process URL structures. For instance, double slashes in URLs can create duplicate content problems, complicating the indexing process 49. Users are encouraged to regularly monitor their indexing status and address any broken links promptly to mitigate the impact of these errors on their site's visibility 6.Community sentiment reflects a proactive approach, with many users sharing strategies for managing legacy URLs and addressing indexing concerns. Some advocate for the use of the URL removal tool in Google Search Console to expedite the de-indexing of outdated URLs, while others suggest that patience is key as Google updates its index 38.Conflicting viewpoints arise regarding the effectiveness of 301 redirects versus immediate removal tools, with some users reporting varying success rates 7. Overall, the current state of indexing issues for Vercel users indicates a need for ongoing vigilance and adaptation to Google's indexing processes. As users continue to navigate these challenges, the importance of proper URL management and regular monitoring cannot be overstated, as they are essential for maintaining site integrity and optimizing SEO performance 26.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What should I do if my legacy trailing slash URLs are still indexed?
A: Implement 301 redirects for these URLs to point to the correct non-trailing slash versions. Additionally, consider using Google Search Console's URL removal tool to expedite the de-indexing process.
Q: Why has my HTTPS indexed count dropped significantly?
A: This could be due to several factors, including improper URL formatting, 404 errors, or Google's processing of recent site changes. Regularly monitor your indexing status and ensure your sitemap is up-to-date.
Q: Is it better to use the URL removal tool or wait for 301 redirects to take effect?
A: Using the URL removal tool can expedite the de-indexing of outdated URLs, while 301 redirects may take longer to show results. A combination of both approaches may be most effective.
Related Sources Found by AI
Our AI found 9 relevant sources related to this frustration:
This article explains the nature of 404 errors in Google Search Console and provides steps to identify and fix them. It relates to the user's complaint by highlighting the importance of addressing URL errors to improve indexing and user experience.
This guide covers various types of invalid and bad URLs, including common causes and solutions. It is relevant to the complaint as it discusses the impact of URL formatting on indexing and offers practical advice for maintaining valid URLs.
This article outlines strategies to expedite the indexing process for websites, including the importance of sitemaps and monitoring indexing status. It connects to the user's complaint by providing actionable insights to improve the indexing of HTTPS pages.
This document explains the issues caused by double slashes in URLs and how they can lead to duplicate content problems. It relates to the user's complaint by providing insights on managing legacy URLs through 301 redirects, which is crucial for resolving the trailing slash URL indexing issue.