Company
Date Published
Author
Samuel Scott
Word count
1851
Language
English
Hacker News points
None

Summary

Log analysis is a crucial aspect of technical SEO, serving as the only source of 100% accurate data on how search engines like Google crawl websites. This process involves examining server log files, which record every action taken by visiting bots or humans, to identify issues such as response code errors, inefficient use of crawl budgets, and unnecessary duplicate URL crawling. Correcting these problems can lead to improved search engine rankings, increased traffic, and higher conversion rates. Despite its importance, log analysis is often overlooked in SEO circles, with many opting for automated tools like the ELK Stack or proprietary software such as Splunk and Sumo-Logic to streamline the process. These tools provide a more comprehensive view of website activity and help address critical technical SEO issues such as bot crawl volume, response code errors, and crawl budget management, ultimately enhancing a website's search engine performance and visibility.