How to Submit an Updated XML Sitemap to Google. Submitting an updated XML sitemap to Google is an essential step in maintaining correct and fast indexing of your website’s pages.
By following this process and regularly monitoring in Search Console, you will improve SEO visibility and provide a better experience for users searching for your content on Google.
What is an XML sitemap?
An XML sitemap is a file that contains a list of all the important pages of your website, organized in a standardized format (XML) that search engines can easily read.
It helps Google understand the website structure and quickly index new or updated content.
Why is submitting an updated sitemap important?
Submitting an updated XML sitemap to Google allows the search engine to quickly discover newly added or modified pages.
This process helps with:
- Accelerating indexing of new content;
- Avoiding missing or unindexed pages;
- Improving transparency regarding website structure;
- Correcting any errors in page accessibility.
How to submit an updated XML sitemap?
Step 1: Check the XML sitemap location
Most WordPress websites automatically generate an XML sitemap through plugins like Yoast SEO, Rank Math or All in One SEO.
The default location is often:
https://www.your-website.ro/sitemap.xml
Access this URL in your browser to verify that the XML sitemap is generated correctly.
Step 2: Access Google Search Console
To submit an XML sitemap, you need to have your website added and verified in your Google Search Console account.
If you haven’t added it yet, follow the verification steps provided by Google.
Step 3: Submit the XML sitemap in Search Console
- Access the desired property in Google Search Console.
- From the side menu, click on “Indexing” → “Sitemaps”.
- Enter the relative URL of the XML sitemap (ex:
sitemap.xml). - Press the “Submit” button.
After submission, Google will begin the process of analysis and indexing of the content.
Step 4: Monitor the sitemap status
In the Sitemaps section of Google Search Console you will be able to see the processing status:
- Last read: date of last processing by Google;
- Status: Success, Errors or Warnings;
- Discovered pages: total number of URLs identified from the sitemap.
Recommendations for an efficient XML sitemap
- Include only active, indexable URLs;
- Avoid submitting pages with
noindextag or with redirects; - Automatically update the sitemap when adding new content (through CMS or script);
- Regularly check the XML file to remove expired or deleted URLs.
Alternatives for generating an XML sitemap
- WordPress: Plugins like Yoast SEO or Rank Math;
- Magento / PrestaShop: Built-in module or additional extensions;
- Static website: Free online generators or PHP scripts;
- cPanel: Some hosts offer integrated sitemap generator.
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