Google Search Console Errors

This article explains how to identify and fix common Google Search Console errors on your Web60 website.

Understanding Google Search Console Errors

Google Search Console is a free tool that shows how Google sees your website. It reports errors that might prevent your pages from appearing in search results. Common error types include coverage issues, indexing problems, and mobile usability warnings.

Fixing Coverage Errors

Coverage errors mean Google cannot properly access or understand certain pages on your website.

404 Errors (Page Not Found)

1. Log into your WordPress admin dashboard
2. Go to Pages or Posts to check if the reported page still exists
3. If the page was deleted intentionally, ignore the error - it will disappear after a few weeks
4. If the page should exist, recreate it or check the URL spelling
5. For important missing pages, consider redirecting the old URL to a relevant existing page

Server Errors (5xx)

1. Check if your website loads normally by visiting it in a browser
2. If pages won't load, contact Web60 support immediately as this indicates a hosting issue
3. If only specific pages have errors, try updating or republishing those pages in WordPress

Redirect Errors

1. Review any redirect plugins you've installed recently
2. Check for redirect loops where page A redirects to page B, which redirects back to page A
3. Remove conflicting redirects through your WordPress admin or plugins

Resolving Mobile Usability Issues

Google reports problems with how your website displays on mobile devices.

Content Wider Than Screen

1. Check your WordPress theme's mobile responsiveness
2. Review any custom CSS that might force fixed widths
3. Test your pages on a mobile device to confirm the issue
4. Consider installing a mobile-friendly WordPress theme

Clickable Elements Too Close

1. Increase spacing between menu items, buttons, and links
2. Make buttons and links larger for easier tapping
3. Review your theme's mobile menu settings

Fixing Indexing Problems

Submitted URL Not Found

1. Verify the page exists and is published (not in draft mode)
2. Check if the page is set to private or password-protected
3. Ensure the URL is correct in your sitemap

Crawled But Not Indexed

1. Improve the page's content quality and length
2. Add relevant keywords and meta descriptions
3. Ensure the page provides unique value compared to other pages on your site
4. Check that the page isn't marked as 'noindex' in your SEO plugin

Monitoring and Prevention

1. Check Google Search Console weekly for new errors
2. Fix errors promptly to maintain your search rankings
3. Use the URL Inspection tool to test individual pages
4. Submit fixed pages for re-indexing using the "Request Indexing" button
5. Keep your WordPress site and plugins updated to prevent technical issues

Most errors resolve themselves within 2-4 weeks after fixing. For SEO optimization tips, review our guide on WordPress SEO best practices.

If you're still stuck after following these steps, contact Web60 support for assistance with technical issues related to your hosting environment.

FAQ

Q: How long does it take for Google Search Console errors to disappear after I fix them?

A: Most errors clear within 2-4 weeks after you resolve the underlying issue. Google needs time to re-crawl your pages and update its records.

Q: Should I worry about every single error in Google Search Console?

A: Focus on errors affecting important pages first. Some errors for old, deleted pages can be safely ignored as they'll disappear naturally over time.

Q: Why is Google showing errors for pages I deleted months ago?

A: Google remembers old URLs and takes time to remove them from its system. These errors typically resolve themselves after several weeks without action needed.

Q: Can Google Search Console errors hurt my website's ranking?

A: Yes, some errors like server problems or mobile usability issues can negatively impact your search rankings. Fix critical errors promptly.

Q: How do I know if an error is serious or can be ignored?

A: Errors affecting your current, important pages are serious. Errors for intentionally deleted pages or test pages can usually be ignored.

Q: What's the difference between a coverage error and an indexing issue?

A: Coverage errors mean Google can't access your pages properly. Indexing issues mean Google found your pages but chose not to include them in search results.

Q: Do I need to resubmit my sitemap after fixing errors?

A: Not usually. Google automatically re-crawls your sitemap regularly. However, you can manually request indexing for specific fixed pages using the URL Inspection tool.