How to Add Website to Google Search Console (GSC)

Alex
Reading time: 6 minutes
In this article, we will explore the step-by-step process of adding your website to Google Search Console and the benefits it brings. Let's dive in and unlock the potential of optimizing your website for better performance in search engine results.
Add Website to Google Search Console

Welcome to the world of Google Search Console! As a website owner, it’s crucial to understand how this powerful tool can enhance your online presence. In this article, we will explore the step-by-step process of adding your website to Google Search Console and the benefits it brings. Let’s dive in and unlock the potential of optimizing your website for better performance in search engine results.

Google Search Console is a free web service offered by Google that allows website owners to monitor and optimize their website’s performance in search engine results. By providing valuable insights into website traffic, search queries, and technical issues, Google Search Console helps website owners to improve their online visibility and user experience. It’s an essential tool for any website owner to better understand how their website interacts with search engines, identify areas for improvement, and track their website’s progress over time.

Now let us add your website to Google Search Console (GSC).

Step 1: Visit the Google Search Console Homepage

Sign in with your Google account or create a new one if you don’t have an account already.

homepage of google search console

Step 2: Add Property

Click on the “Search property” search bar, then you will see the “Add Property” button below. Now, click on the “Add Property” button

add property on google search console

Step 3: Select Property Type

On the next page, there are two types of website properties. Choose the property type and type in the full URL of your website’s homepage (e.g., https://www.yourwebsite.com) and click on the “Continue” button.

select property type on google search console

Here is the a comparison of two property types, also you can visit the Google help to learn more about how to choose the property types.

comparison of two property types of google search console

Step 4: Copy/Download the Certification Information

Verification information is required to prove that you own the website and have the necessary access rights.

If you choose “URL-prefix property”

You will see the page like this:

URL-prefix property

Just follow the steps on the page, copy the TXT record below into the DNS configuration for your website.

If you choose “Domain property”

You will see the page like this:

Domain property

There are several ways to verify your site. Choose the method that is most convenient for you:

  • HTML File Upload: Download the HTML verification file provided by Google, then upload it to the root directory of your website using an FTP client or file manager.
  • HTML Tag: Copy the provided HTML tag and paste it into the <head> section of your website’s homepage HTML code.
  • Domain Name Provider: Select your domain name provider from the list and follow the instructions to verify your ownership.
  • Google Analytics: If you have Google Analytics set up for your website, you can choose this option for verification.

Step 5: Back to Google Search Console to Complete Verification.

After you’ve completed the verification process on your website, go back to the Google Search Console dashboard and click ‘Verify’.

You should see your website listed. Note that it may take some time for data to start appearing in your account.

Congratulations!

You have successfully added your website to Google Search Console. From here, you can explore the various features and reports provided by GSC to monitor and optimize your website’s performance in Google search results. With access to valuable data on website traffic, search queries, and technical issues, you can make informed decisions to improve your online visibility, user experience, and ultimately grow your business. Keep exploring the possibilities of Google Search Console, and watch your website thrive.

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