Google Search Console - How To Set Up – ASP Knowledge Base

Google Search Console is a free tool that helps you monitor your website's health and performance in Google search results.

Setting up Search Console lets you gain valuable insights to improve your website’s ranking and visibility.

Before You Start

Use a Gmail account: Ideally, the same Gmail account you use for other Google services like Google Analytics.
Confirm access:
- Domain Property (Recommended): Requires access to your domain’s DNS settings. This method covers all URLs and subdomains across all protocols (http/https) and provides more comprehensive data.
- URL Prefix Property: Requires the ability to upload files or edit your website’s HTML code. This is easier to set up but provides less data.

Step 1: Open Google Search Console

Visit the Google Search Console signup page.
Log in with your Gmail account.

Step 2: Choose Your Verification Method

Option 1: Domain Property (Recommended)

This method tracks all URLs across subdomains and protocols.

Click “Add Property” and select “Domain.”
Enter your domain name (e.g., example.com) and click “Continue.”
Google will generate a DNS verification code.
Log in to your domain registrar (e.g., GoDaddy, Namecheap).
Go to your DNS settings and add a new TXT record:
- Name/Host: @
- Type: TXT
- Value: Paste the DNS code provided by Google.
- TTL: 1-Hour
Save your changes and return to Google Search Console. Click “Verify.”

Note: DNS updates may take a few hours to propagate. If verification fails, wait and try again later.

Option 2: URL Prefix Property (Easier but Limited)

This method tracks only URLs under a specific address and protocol (e.g., https://www.example.com).

Click “Add Property” and select “URL Prefix.”
Enter the exact URL of your website (e.g., https://www.example.com) and click “Continue.”
Choose a verification method:
- HTML File: Download a file from Google and upload it to your website’s root directory.
- HTML Tag: Add a meta tag to your website’s <head> section.
- Google Analytics: Verify ownership using your existing Google Analytics account.
Complete the steps and return to Google Search Console. Click “Verify.”

Step 3: Start Exploring Search Console

Once verified, you can access valuable tools and insights:

Submit a Sitemap: Help Google discover and index your site.
Check Index Coverage: Resolve any issues preventing Google from indexing your pages.
Monitor Search Performance: See which search terms bring visitors to your site.
Mobile Usability: Identify and fix mobile-friendly issues.

Tips for Success

Prioritise Domain Property: Use this method for the most comprehensive data.
Verify Variations: If using URL Prefix, verify both http and https as well as www and non-www versions.

Need Help?

For further assistance, check these official Google resources:

Google Search Console Help Centre – Comprehensive guides and troubleshooting tips.
Google Search Central – Best practices to optimise your website’s visibility in Google Search.
Google Search Console YouTube Channel – Video tutorials for beginners and advanced users.

Disclaimer

ASP does not support Google products, including Google Search Console. For specific help with setting up Search Console or optimising your website, ASP offers affordable optimisation services tailored specifically to events. Our team brings years of expertise and event-specific experience to help you get the most from your website.

Optimisation & SEO Help?

Visit our Optimisation page or contact your Account Manager for more information.

By setting up Google Search Console, you’re equipping yourself with a powerful tool to improve your website’s performance and user experience. For further guidance, refer to the links above or reach out to ASP for tailored digital marketing services.