The Google Search Console (also known under the former name "Google Webmaster") is a free Google product and is one of the most frequently used tools in online marketing. Similar to setting up the Google Analytics account, the property must be actively linked to the Google Search Console. Various access and read permissions can then be assigned to employees.
This product can be used to monitor keyword rankings, the indexing status of URLs and many other SEO metrics. The Google Search Console provides information on on-page SEO and off-page SEO and shows the potential for action. Google's service is an indispensable tool for successful websites.
The following SEO metrics can be seen in the GSC:
The Google Search Console offers comprehensive SEO reporting and provides data for the SEO strategy. The GSC offers other valuable functions, such as submitting the XML sitemap and index request for new URLs. Furthermore, outdated URLs or toxic links can be devalued.
Comprehensive monitoring provides data on the core web vitals - such as CLS and FID - that evaluate Google's ranking. The Google Search Console also offers insights into user behavior. Here you can see the click rate and impressions, which queries (search queries) and URLs generated the most traffic. It is also possible to see from which countries and with which devices a website was accessed. Possible problems with indexing and loading speed are also part of the Google Search Console.
According to current guidelines, the Google Search Console does not violate any provision of GDPR (as of November 2023). The Google Search Console also adds new facets to the support of known SEO strategies from the past with regard to surfing behavior. For example, the service also analyzes whether websites can be used optimally from mobile devices such as smartphones.