If you see status error codes in your Search Console crawl data, it’s crucial to address them promptly. These errors indicate that Google’s crawlers encountered issues while accessing your website, potentially hindering its visibility in search results. Here’s a breakdown of common error codes and how to troubleshoot them:
404 Not Found:
This error signals a broken link, meaning the requested page doesn’t exist on your website. To fix it:
- Identify the specific URLs throwing the error: This can be done through Search Console’s “Crawl Errors” report.
- Redirect broken links: If a page has been moved or removed, create a 301 redirect from the old URL to the new one. This ensures users and search engines are redirected seamlessly.
- Fix broken links: If the page still exists, make sure the URL is correctly written in your website’s code and that there are no typos.
403 Forbidden:
This error indicates that the server is denying access to the requested page, likely due to a configuration issue. To resolve it:
- Check server configuration: Ensure that the relevant files and directories have the correct permissions.
- Review .htaccess file: The .htaccess file might have rules blocking access to the page. Check for any unnecessary restrictions.
- Contact your hosting provider: They can help you troubleshoot configuration issues and access logs for further investigation.
500 Internal Server Error:
This error indicates a general server issue preventing the page from loading. To fix it:
- Check server logs: Look for specific error messages in your server logs to identify the root cause.
- Contact your hosting provider: They can diagnose and fix server-side issues.
- Review recent changes: If you recently made any changes to your website, like installing a plugin or updating a theme, revert them to see if they caused the error.
Other Error Codes:
Beyond these common codes, you might encounter others like 400 Bad Request, 410 Gone, or 503 Service Unavailable. Each has its unique meaning, so carefully consult Search Console’s documentation to understand the specific error and its resolution.
Proactive Measures:
- Regularly monitor Search Console: Stay informed about any errors that arise and address them promptly.
- Implement a robust crawl budget: Optimize your website’s structure and content to prevent excessive crawl requests and limit potential errors.
- Use a reliable website monitoring tool: These tools can alert you to server issues or other problems before they significantly impact your SEO.
Addressing crawl errors is essential for maintaining a healthy website and maximizing its visibility in search results.