What is a canonical URL?

A canonical URL is the preferred version of a webpage when multiple versions exist. It's specified using a canonical tag in the HTML head section and tells search engines which URL should be considered the primary version, helping to prevent duplicate content issues and consolidate SEO value.

When should I use canonical URLs?

You should use canonical URLs when you have multiple URLs pointing to the same or similar content, such as with different URL parameters, print versions, mobile versions, or when content is accessible through multiple paths. This helps search engines understand which version to index and rank.

How do I implement canonical URLs?

To implement canonical URLs: 1) Identify duplicate content pages, 2) Choose the preferred URL version, 3) Add a canonical tag in the HTML head section of each duplicate page pointing to the preferred URL, 4) Ensure the canonical URL is accessible and returns a 200 status code, 5) Monitor implementation in Google Search Console.

Canonical URL Generator

Create canonical tags to prevent duplicate content issues and improve SEO

Canonical URL

Enter the main URL that should be indexed by search engines

Bulk URL Pairs

Output Format

Include HTML Tag Format

Include HTTP Header Format

About Canonical URLs

A canonical URL is the preferred version of a web page's URL that you want search engines to index and rank. It helps prevent duplicate content issues when multiple URLs can access the same content.

When to Use Canonical URLs

Duplicate Content: When the same content exists at multiple URLs
URL Parameters: When pages have different URL parameters but same content
Mobile Versions: When you have separate mobile URLs
Print Versions: When you have printer-friendly versions of pages
Session IDs: When URLs contain session tracking parameters

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between canonical tags and 301 redirects?

Canonical Tags: Tell search engines which URL is preferred while keeping both URLs accessible
301 Redirects: Permanently redirect users from one URL to another
Use canonical tags when you want to keep both URLs accessible
Use 301 redirects when you want to consolidate traffic to a single URL

Can I use multiple canonical tags on a page?

No, you should only use one canonical tag per page. Multiple canonical tags can confuse search engines and may lead to unexpected behavior. Always specify a single preferred URL.

Should canonical URLs be absolute or relative?

Always use absolute URLs in canonical tags. This ensures search engines can properly identify the preferred URL regardless of where the page is accessed from.

Canonical URL Generator

Generated Canonical Tags

About Canonical URLs

When to Use Canonical URLs

Frequently Asked Questions