Foundation & Setup

Install Google Search Console — Step-by-Step Guide

Monitor indexing status, crawl errors, keyword performance, and security issues. Submit sitemaps and track which queries drive traffic.

Easy Critical Impact 15 min Online Local Hybrid
Pro Tip

Use the "Domain" property type instead of "URL prefix" if possible — it captures all subdomains (www, blog, shop) and both HTTP/HTTPS in a single property.

Step-by-Step Guide

1

Go to Google Search Console and sign in

Visit search.google.com/search-console and sign in with the Google account you want to manage the site with.

2

Add your website property

Click "Add property" in the top-left dropdown. Choose between two types:

  • Domain property (recommended): Covers all URLs across all subdomains and protocols. Requires DNS verification.
  • URL prefix property: Covers only a specific URL prefix (e.g., https://www.example.com). Easier to verify but less comprehensive.
3

Verify ownership of your site

Google needs to confirm you own this website. Choose the method that's easiest for you:

  • DNS verification (for Domain property): Add a TXT record to your domain's DNS settings. Takes 5-10 min to propagate.
  • HTML file upload: Download a verification file and upload it to your site's root directory.
  • HTML meta tag: Add a <meta> tag to your homepage's <head> section.
  • Google Analytics: If GA is already installed, this auto-verifies instantly.
  • Google Tag Manager: If GTM is installed, this also auto-verifies.
4

Submit your XML sitemap

Go to Sitemaps in the left sidebar, enter your sitemap URL (usually /sitemap.xml), and click Submit. This tells Google about all your important pages.

5

Explore key reports while waiting for data

Initial data takes 2-3 days to appear. Once available, focus on these reports:

  • Performance: See which keywords drive traffic, impressions, CTR, and average position.
  • Pages: See which pages get the most clicks and impressions.
  • Index > Pages: Check for indexing errors, excluded pages, and crawl issues.
  • Experience > Core Web Vitals: Monitor page speed metrics.

Video Tutorial

Tools & Resources

Google Search Console

Learn More

GSC Complete Guide — AhrefsarticleOfficial GSC Documentationofficial

Do this task in the interactive tool

Track your progress and get guided through every step.

Open Interactive Tool

More in Foundation & Setup

Set Up Google Analytics 4 (GA4)

Easy20 min

Run a Full Site Audit

Medium1-2 hrs

Define KPIs & Goals

Easy30 min

Competitor Backlink & Keyword Analysis

Medium1-2 hrs

Install an SEO Plugin/Tool

Easy15 min