Google Explains 404 and Redirect Validation in Search Console
Google’s John Mueller has explained how the Google Search Console processes 404 errors and redirects during site changes. His insights help clarify misunderstandings about site migrations.
Key Points from Google
"Mark as Fixed" Doesn’t Speed Things Up
Mueller said that using the “mark as fixed” option in the Search Console does not speed up Google’s processing of site changes. It is a tool for tracking progress, but it does not affect how quickly Google rechecks the site.
Handling Redirects and 404 Errors
Proper redirects should be set up to point users to the right pages. New pages should return a 200 (OK) status code. If a page is no longer needed, a 404 error is fine as long as it is intentional.
Mueller explained that flagged 404 errors in the Search Console are not a problem unless they were not supposed to happen.
Reprocessing Takes Time
Google’s timeline for processing changes varies. Recent updates are processed faster, but older or larger site changes take longer.
Best Practices for Site Owners
- Make sure redirects are in place to guide users and search engines.
- Fix internal links to match new URLs.
- Update sitemaps to reflect the changes.
- Check 404 errors regularly and fix unintentional ones.
Why It Matters
If not handled well, site migrations can impact search rankings. By following Google’s guidelines, businesses can avoid drops in visibility and maintain website performance.
Sarosh Khan has been part of CyberX Studio since 2024 as a Content Writer and Strategist. With a degree in Media & Communication Studies, Sarosh is passionate about creating content that is both informative and engaging. She specializes in researching