The Complete Technical SEO Checklist: 127 Points for Peak Performance

Technical SEO can make or break your search visibility. Studies show that 53% of mobile users abandon sites that take longer than 3 seconds to load, and Google’s algorithms increasingly prioritize sites with solid technical foundations.

Yet many website owners focus solely on content and backlinks while ignoring the critical infrastructure that allows search engines to find, crawl, and rank their pages effectively.

Technical SEO is the process of optimizing your website’s infrastructure to help search engines crawl, index, and understand your content more efficiently. In 2025, with Google’s emphasis on Core Web Vitals, mobile-first indexing, and sophisticated crawling algorithms, getting the technical details right isn’t optional—it’s essential for competitive rankings.

This comprehensive guide breaks down 127 actionable technical SEO points across 10 critical categories. Whether you’re conducting your first technical SEO audit or fine-tuning an established site, this checklist covers everything from basic crawlability issues to advanced optimization techniques.

You’ll find specific implementation steps, recommended tools, and prioritization guidance to help you tackle technical challenges systematically and boost your website’s performance where it matters most.

How to Use This Checklist

This technical SEO checklist isn’t designed to be completed in a single day. Different points will have varying levels of impact depending on your site’s current state, industry, and technical capabilities.

Start with an audit: Before diving into fixes, run your site through comprehensive tools like Google Search Console, Screaming Frog, and PageSpeed Insights to identify which issues affect your site.

Prioritize by impact: Focus first on critical issues that directly prevent indexing (robots.txt errors, noindex tags on important pages) or significantly harm user experience (severe page speed issues, mobile usability problems). These are your “quick wins” that deliver maximum ROI.

Think in phases: Group related improvements together. For example, tackle all Core Web Vitals optimizations in one sprint, then move to structured data implementation. This approach is more efficient than jumping between unrelated technical areas.

Make it ongoing: Technical SEO isn’t a one-time project. Schedule quarterly audits to catch new issues, monitor for crawl errors monthly, and stay updated on algorithm changes that might require technical adjustments.

Category A: Crawlability & Indexability

1. Robots.txt File Exists and Is Properly Configured

Your robots.txt file tells search engines which parts of your site they can crawl. A misconfigured robots.txt is one of the most common reasons sites lose rankings overnight.

How to implement/check:

Access your robots.txt at yourdomain.com/robots.txt
Verify it’s not blocking important pages or resources (CSS, JavaScript)
Ensure you’re not accidentally blocking search engines entirely
Include your XML sitemap location in the robots.txt file

Tools: Google Search Console (Robots.txt Tester), Screaming Frog

2. XML Sitemap Submitted to Search Engines

An XML sitemap helps search engines discover all your important pages efficiently, especially on larger sites where pages might be buried deep in the site structure.

How to implement/check:

Create an XML sitemap containing all indexable URLs
Submit sitemap through Google Search Console and Bing Webmaster Tools
Verify the sitemap is accessible and properly formatted
Exclude non-indexable pages (admin areas, duplicate content, thin pages)

Tools: Yoast SEO, Rank Math, XML-Sitemaps.com, Screaming Frog

3. XML Sitemap Updated Regularly

A stale sitemap containing outdated URLs wastes crawl budget and confuses search engines about your site’s actual structure.

How to implement/check:

Set up automatic sitemap generation when content changes
Remove deleted pages and add new pages promptly
Check for 404 errors in your sitemap through Search Console
Keep sitemap size under 50MB and 50,000 URLs per file

Tools: WordPress plugins (auto-update), Google Search Console (error monitoring)

4. Important Pages Are Indexable

Accidentally blocking critical pages from search engines through meta robots tags or other directives is surprisingly common and catastrophic for visibility.

How to implement/check:

Audit all pages for noindex tags in the HTML head
Check for X-Robots-Tag headers in HTTP responses
Verify important pages aren’t blocked by robots.txt
Monitor indexed page count in Search Console over time

Tools: Screaming Frog, Google Search Console (Coverage Report), SEMrush Site Audit

5. Crawl Budget Optimized for Large Sites

For sites with thousands of pages, ensuring search engines prioritize crawling your most important content is crucial for maintaining fresh index data.

How to implement/check:

Identify low-value pages consuming crawl budget (thin content, duplicates, parameters)
Use robots.txt or noindex to exclude these from crawling
Improve internal linking to guide crawlers to priority pages
Monitor Googlebot activity in server logs

Tools: Server log analyzers (Screaming Frog Log File Analyzer), Google Search Console (Crawl Stats)

6. JavaScript Content Renders Properly

Google can render JavaScript, but it’s not instantaneous or guaranteed. Sites heavily reliant on JavaScript frameworks can face significant indexing issues.

How to implement/check:

Test your pages with Google’s Mobile-Friendly Test and URL Inspection Tool
Verify critical content appears in the rendered HTML
Use server-side rendering (SSR) or pre-rendering for critical pages
Implement dynamic rendering if needed for complex JavaScript apps

Tools: Google Search Console (URL Inspection Tool), Puppeteer, Screaming Frog (JavaScript rendering mode)

7. Log File Analysis Conducted

Server logs reveal exactly how search engines crawl your site—which pages they visit, how often, and what errors they encounter.

How to implement/check:

Collect server log files covering at least 30 days
Analyze Googlebot crawl patterns and response codes
Identify crawl waste (bots hitting irrelevant pages)
Compare crawl frequency with content update frequency

Tools: Screaming Frog Log File Analyzer, Splunk, GoAccess

8. URL Parameters Handled Correctly

URL parameters from filtering, sorting, or tracking can create massive duplicate content issues and waste crawl budget.

How to implement/check:

Identify all parameter variations in your URLs
Configure parameter handling in Google Search Console
Use canonical tags to consolidate parameter variations
Consider using URL rewrites to eliminate unnecessary parameters

Tools: Google Search Console (URL Parameters tool), Screaming Frog

9. Orphan Pages Identified and Fixed

Orphan pages have no internal links pointing to them, making them nearly invisible to both users and search engines.

How to implement/check:

Crawl your site and compare to pages listed in your sitemap
Identify pages that appear in your sitemap but weren’t found during the crawl
Add internal links from relevant pages to integrate orphans
Remove unimportant orphan pages entirely

Tools: Screaming Frog, Sitebulb, DeepCrawl

10. Crawl Depth Minimized

Pages requiring many clicks from the homepage get crawled less frequently and may not pass as much authority.

How to implement/check:

Ensure important pages are within 3 clicks of the homepage
Implement strategic internal linking to reduce click depth
Use category pages and hub pages to distribute link equity
Monitor crawl depth distribution in crawl tools

Tools: Screaming Frog, Sitebulb (shows crawl depth metrics)

11. Infinite Scroll Implemented Properly

Infinite scroll can prevent search engines from discovering content beyond the initial load if not implemented correctly.

How to implement/check:

Implement pagination URLs alongside infinite scroll (rel=”next” and rel=”prev” or paginated URLs)
Ensure paginated pages are crawlable and indexable
Test that Googlebot can access content in all sections
Provide traditional pagination as a fallback

Tools: Google Search Console (URL Inspection), Screaming Frog

12. Faceted Navigation Optimized

E-commerce sites with extensive filtering options can generate millions of URL variations, creating severe duplicate content and crawl budget issues.

How to implement/check:

Identify which filter combinations should be indexable (popular, high-value searches)
Use robots.txt or meta robots to block low-value facet combinations
Implement canonical tags pointing to primary versions
Consider using rel=”nofollow” on filter links that shouldn’t be crawled

Tools: Screaming Frog, Google Search Console

13. AMP Pages Validated (If Used)

While AMP is less critical than it once was, sites still using it must ensure proper validation to avoid indexing problems.

How to implement/check:

Validate all AMP pages using the AMP Validator
Check for AMP errors in Google Search Console
Ensure proper linking between canonical and AMP versions
Monitor AMP page performance in Search Console

Tools: AMP Validator, Google Search Console (AMP Report)

14. JavaScript Framework SEO Considerations

Sites built with React, Angular, or Vue.js require special attention to ensure search engines can crawl and index content properly.

How to implement/check:

Implement server-side rendering (SSR) or static site generation (SSG)
Use Next.js (React) or Nuxt.js (Vue) frameworks with built-in SSR
Verify rendered HTML contains all critical content and metadata
Test with various user agents and rendering tools

Tools: Google Mobile-Friendly Test, Puppeteer, Chrome DevTools

15. API Endpoint Indexing Controlled

API endpoints can create indexing confusion if search engines discover and attempt to index them.

How to implement/check:

Block API directories in robots.txt
Return proper 404 or 403 status codes for non-public endpoints
Use authentication requirements to prevent crawler access
Monitor Search Console for unexpected API URL indexing

Tools: robots.txt, server configuration, Google Search Console

16. Pagination Implemented Correctly

Paginated content series need clear signals to search engines about the relationship between pages.

How to implement/check:

Use self-referencing canonical tags on each paginated page
Implement clear “next” and “previous” navigation
Ensure all paginated pages are accessible and indexable
Consider using a “view all” page with canonical for small series

Tools: Screaming Frog, Google Search Console (URL Inspection)

17. HTML Sitemap Provided for Users

While XML sitemaps serve search engines, HTML sitemaps improve user navigation and provide additional crawl paths.

How to implement/check:

Create an organized HTML sitemap with links to major sections
Link to your HTML sitemap from the footer
Keep it user-focused with clear categorization
Update regularly as site structure evolves

Tools: Manual creation, plugins for CMS platforms

18. Crawl Error Monitoring Established

Regular monitoring ensures you catch and fix crawl issues before they impact rankings.

How to implement/check:

Review Google Search Console coverage report weekly
Set up email alerts for critical crawl errors
Investigate spikes in crawl errors immediately
Track error trends over time to identify systemic issues

Tools: Google Search Console, monitoring scripts, SEO platforms

Category B: Site Architecture & URL Structure

19. URL Structure Is Clean and Descriptive

URLs should clearly indicate page content to both users and search engines, avoiding unnecessary parameters or complex strings.

How to implement/check:

Use hyphens to separate words (not underscores)
Keep URLs short and descriptive (under 60 characters when possible)
Include target keywords naturally in URLs
Avoid excessive subdirectories and parameters

Tools: Manual review, Screaming Frog (URL length report)

20. HTTPS Implemented Site-Wide

Secure sites rank better, build trust, and are required for many modern web features.

How to implement/check:

Install valid SSL/TLS certificate
Redirect all HTTP URLs to HTTPS equivalents
Update all internal links to use HTTPS
Submit HTTPS version in Search Console

Tools: SSL Labs, Why No Padlock, Screaming Frog

21. Consistent URL Formatting (www vs non-www)

Split authority between www and non-www versions harms your site’s ability to rank competitively.

How to implement/check:

Choose preferred version (www or non-www)
Implement 301 redirects from non-preferred to preferred version
Update all internal links to use preferred version
Set preferred domain in Google Search Console

Tools: Server configuration, .htaccess, Screaming Frog

22. Trailing Slash Consistency

Inconsistent trailing slash usage creates duplicate content and wastes link equity.

How to implement/check:

Decide on a trailing slash policy (with or without)
Configure server to redirect to your chosen format
Update internal links to match your standard
Check for duplicate pages created by trailing slash variations

Tools: Screaming Frog, server configuration

23. Lowercase URLs Enforced

URLs are case-sensitive on some servers, potentially creating duplicate content issues.

How to implement/check:

Implement 301 redirects from uppercase to lowercase versions
Configure your CMS to generate only lowercase URLs
Update all internal references to use lowercase
Check for mixed-case indexing issues in Search Console

Tools: Server configuration, Screaming Frog

24. Internal Linking Strategy Implemented

Strategic internal linking distributes authority, improves crawlability, and helps establish topical relevance.

How to implement/check:

Link from high-authority pages to important target pages
Use descriptive anchor text that includes relevant keywords
Create hub pages that organize related content with links
Maintain a reasonable number of links per page (under 150)

Tools: Screaming Frog (link analysis), Ahrefs (internal link opportunities)

25. Breadcrumb Navigation Implemented

Breadcrumbs improve user navigation and help search engines understand site hierarchy.

How to implement/check:

Add breadcrumb navigation to all content pages
Implement breadcrumb schema markup (BreadcrumbList)
Ensure breadcrumbs reflect actual site hierarchy
Make breadcrumbs clickable and functional

Tools: Schema Markup Validator, manual testing

26. Clear Site Hierarchy Established

A logical site structure helps search engines understand content relationships and importance.

How to implement/check:

Organize content into clear categories and subcategories
Keep important content close to homepage (3 clicks or fewer)
Use consistent navigation across the site
Create category hub pages that link to related content

Tools: Site mapping tools, Screaming Frog (crawl depth analysis)

27. Footer Links Optimized

Footer links provide important navigation but can be spammy if overused.

How to implement/check:

Include only essential links (privacy, terms, contact, sitemap)
Avoid excessive keyword-rich footer links
Ensure footer links are relevant and useful
Keep footer navigation consistent across pages

Tools: Manual review

28. Main Navigation Accessible Without JavaScript

Critical navigation should be available even if JavaScript fails to load.

How to implement/check:

Test navigation with JavaScript disabled in browser
Ensure primary menu links exist in HTML (not only JavaScript-generated)
Verify search engines can discover linked pages
Use progressive enhancement approach

Tools: Browser developer tools, Screaming Frog (JavaScript disabled mode)

29. Related Content Linking Present

Linking to related posts or products keeps users engaged and distributes authority effectively.

How to implement/check:

Add “Related Posts” or “You May Also Like” sections
Use plugins or manual curation for recommendations
Ensure recommendations are actually relevant
Vary anchor text naturally

Tools: WordPress Related Posts plugins, manual implementation

30. Nofollow Links Used Appropriately

Nofollow attributes signal to search engines which links you don’t endorse and help preserve crawl budget.

How to implement/check:

Add rel=”nofollow” to all paid or sponsored links
Apply nofollow to user-generated content links
Use nofollow for low-priority pages (login, register)
Avoid overusing nofollow on legitimate internal links

Tools: Screaming Frog (link attribute filter), manual review

31. Link Equity Flow Analyzed

Understanding how authority flows through your site helps optimize internal linking for maximum ranking impact.

How to implement/check:

Identify pages with high authority (backlinks) but poor internal linking
Create internal links from these authority pages to priority targets
Remove or nofollow links to low-value pages
Monitor rankings after internal linking changes

Tools: Ahrefs (Internal Link Report), Screaming Frog (PageRank simulation)

32. Pagination Parameter Handling

Pagination can create confusion about which page should rank; proper handling is essential.

How to implement/check:

Use self-referencing canonical tags on each page (not pointing to page 1)
Implement clear next/previous links
Consider a “view all” option for smaller content sets
Avoid blocking paginated pages in robots.txt

Tools: Screaming Frog, Google Search Console

33. Search Functionality Optimized

Internal search helps users but can create crawl budget issues if search results pages get indexed.

How to implement/check:

Block search results pages from indexing (robots.txt or meta noindex)
Ensure search works efficiently for users
Consider using a search parameter in URL for easy blocking
Monitor for accidental indexing in Search Console

Tools: robots.txt, Google Search Console

34. Category Page Optimization

Category pages are often your strongest ranking opportunities for competitive terms.

How to implement/check:

Add unique descriptive content to each category page
Optimize titles and meta descriptions
Include internal links to subcategories and featured products/posts
Ensure category pages have sufficient unique content for indexing

Tools: On-page SEO tools, manual content review

35. Contextual Internal Links Added

In-content contextual links pass more authority than navigational links and improve user engagement.

How to implement/check:

Link naturally from within body content to related pages
Use descriptive anchor text that flows naturally in sentences
Prioritize linking to pages you want to rank
Avoid overoptimization with exact-match anchors

Tools: Manual implementation, content audit tools

36. Link Depth Distribution Analyzed

Understanding how many clicks separate pages from your homepage reveals architectural issues.

How to implement/check:

Run a crawl to determine click depth for all pages
Identify important pages buried deep in site structure
Add internal links to reduce click depth for priority pages
Target 3 clicks or fewer for all important content

Tools: Screaming Frog (crawl depth column), Sitebulb

Category C: Page Speed & Core Web Vitals

37. Largest Contentful Paint (LCP) Under 2.5 Seconds

LCP measures how quickly the main content loads and is a critical Core Web Vital affecting rankings and user experience.

How to implement/check:

Optimize and compress hero images
Remove render-blocking resources above the fold
Use a CDN to serve images faster
Implement lazy loading for below-the-fold images
Upgrade hosting for faster server response times

Tools: PageSpeed Insights, Chrome DevTools, Web Vitals extension

38. First Input Delay (FID) Under 100ms

FID measures interactivity—how quickly the page responds to user interactions.

How to implement/check:

Minimize JavaScript execution time
Break up long tasks into smaller chunks
Use web workers for heavy computations
Remove unnecessary third-party scripts
Defer non-critical JavaScript

Tools: PageSpeed Insights, Chrome User Experience Report

39. Cumulative Layout Shift (CLS) Under 0.1

CLS measures visual stability; unexpected layout shifts frustrate users and harm rankings.

How to implement/check:

Set explicit width and height attributes on images and videos
Reserve space for ad slots and embeds
Avoid inserting content above existing content
Use CSS aspect ratio boxes for responsive media
Preload fonts to prevent text flash

Tools: PageSpeed Insights, Chrome DevTools (Performance tab)

40. Image Optimization Implemented

Large, unoptimized images are the most common page speed culprit.

How to implement/check:

Compress images using tools like TinyPNG or ImageOptim
Use modern formats (WebP, AVIF) with fallbacks
Implement responsive images with srcset attributes
Serve properly sized images (don’t scale down massive files with CSS)
Use lazy loading for images below the fold

Tools: Squoosh, ImageOptim, Cloudinary, Lazy Load plugins

41. Browser Caching Configured

Proper caching reduces server load and drastically improves repeat visit performance.

How to implement/check:

Set appropriate cache-control headers for static resources
Use long cache times (1 year) for versioned assets
Implement cache busting for updated files
Configure ETags properly
Test caching headers with browser developer tools

Tools: GTmetrix, WebPageTest, browser DevTools (Network tab)

42. Code Minification Applied

Removing unnecessary characters from CSS, JavaScript, and HTML reduces file sizes and improves load times.

How to implement/check:

Minify CSS, JavaScript, and HTML files
Use build tools (Webpack, Gulp) for automatic minification
Enable minification in WordPress caching plugins
Test that minified code functions correctly
Combine files where appropriate to reduce HTTP requests

Tools: WP Rocket, Autoptimize, UglifyJS, CSSNano

43. CDN Implemented

Content Delivery Networks serve your site from geographically distributed servers, reducing latency for users worldwide.

How to implement/check:

Choose a CDN provider (Cloudflare, AWS CloudFront, Fastly)
Configure your site to serve static assets through the CDN
Test that CDN is properly serving content
Monitor CDN performance and cache hit rates
Implement CDN for images, CSS, JavaScript, and fonts

Tools: Cloudflare, AWS CloudFront, KeyCDN, CDN Planet (testing)

44. Server Response Time Optimized (TTFB)

Time to First Byte should be under 200ms; slow servers directly harm all other performance metrics.

How to implement/check:

Upgrade hosting if necessary (consider dedicated or VPS hosting)
Enable server-level caching (Redis, Varnish)
Optimize database queries and indexing
Use a caching plugin (WordPress: WP Rocket, W3 Total Cache)
Monitor server response times regularly

Tools: WebPageTest (TTFB metric), GTmetrix, New Relic

45. Render-Blocking Resources Eliminated

CSS and JavaScript that blocks initial page rendering should be minimized or deferred.

How to implement/check:

Defer non-critical JavaScript using async or defer attributes
Inline critical CSS in the HTML head
Load non-critical CSS asynchronously
Remove unused CSS and JavaScript
Prioritize above-the-fold content loading

Tools: PageSpeed Insights, Critical CSS generators, PurgeCSS

46. Resource Prioritization Configured

Not all resources are equally important; prioritizing critical resources improves perceived performance.

How to implement/check:

Use rel=”preload” for critical resources (fonts, hero images)
Implement rel=”prefetch” for likely next-page resources
Use rel=”preconnect” for critical third-party domains
Avoid preloading too many resources (dilutes benefit)
Test priority hints impact on performance

Tools: Chrome DevTools (Network tab), WebPageTest

47. Lazy Loading Implemented

Loading images and videos only when they enter the viewport significantly improves initial page load.

How to implement/check:

Add loading=”lazy” attribute to images and iframes
Implement JavaScript-based lazy loading for older browsers
Ensure above-the-fold content loads immediately (not lazy)
Test that lazy loading works across devices
Monitor impact on LCP (don’t lazy load LCP image)

Tools: Browser native lazy loading, LazyLoad libraries, Lighthouse

48. Video Optimization Applied

Video files are enormous; optimizing them is essential for page performance.

How to implement/check:

Host videos on YouTube or Vimeo rather than self-hosting
If self-hosting, compress videos and use modern codecs (H.265)
Implement lazy loading for embedded videos
Use poster images with play buttons instead of autoplay
Provide multiple resolution options for different devices

Tools: HandBrake, FFmpeg, YouTube/Vimeo embedding

49. Font Loading Optimized

Custom fonts can cause significant layout shift and delay text rendering.

How to implement/check:

Use font-display: swap or font-display: optional in CSS
Preload critical fonts using rel=”preload”
Limit number of font weights and styles
Self-host fonts or use fast CDN (Google Fonts, Adobe Fonts)
Consider system fonts for fastest performance

Tools: Font subsetting tools, PageSpeed Insights

50. Third-Party Scripts Audited

Analytics, ads, and tracking scripts often contribute most to slow page loads.

How to implement/check:

Identify all third-party scripts using Chrome DevTools
Remove unnecessary scripts entirely
Defer loading of non-critical third-party scripts
Use tag managers to control script loading
Monitor third-party script impact on Core Web Vitals

Tools: Chrome DevTools (Coverage tab), WebPageTest (3rd party domains)

51. Database Optimization Performed

Bloated databases with overhead and unnecessary data slow down dynamic sites.

How to implement/check:

Delete spam comments, post revisions, and transients
Optimize database tables to remove overhead
Enable object caching (Redis, Memcached)
Index frequently queried database columns
Schedule regular database optimization

Tools: WP-Optimize, phpMyAdmin, database optimization plugins

52. HTTP/2 or HTTP/3 Enabled

Modern HTTP protocols dramatically improve performance through multiplexing and other optimizations.

How to implement/check:

Verify your server supports HTTP/2 (most modern hosts do)
Enable HTTP/2 in server configuration if available
Consider HTTP/3 for cutting-edge performance
Test protocol support using browser DevTools
Ensure SSL/TLS is properly configured (required for HTTP/2)

Tools: KeyCDN HTTP/2 Test, browser DevTools (Protocol column)

53. Gzip or Brotli Compression Enabled

Compressing text-based resources reduces transfer size by 70-90%.

How to implement/check:

Enable Gzip compression on server (or Brotli for better compression)
Verify compression is working for HTML, CSS, JavaScript, fonts
Test compression using browser DevTools or online tools
Ensure compression level is appropriately configured
Use Brotli for static assets when possible

Tools: Check Gzip Compression tool, GTmetrix, WebPageTest

54. Unused CSS and JavaScript Removed

Bloated CSS and JavaScript files slow down parsing and execution.

How to implement/check:

Audit CSS and JavaScript usage with Chrome DevTools Coverage tool
Remove unused code or split into separate files
Use PurgeCSS to automatically remove unused CSS
Implement code splitting for JavaScript applications
Regularly audit and clean up old code

Tools: Chrome DevTools (Coverage tab), PurgeCSS, webpack-bundle-analyzer

55. Resource Loading Order Optimized

Loading resources in the right order prevents bottlenecks and improves perceived performance.

How to implement/check:

Load critical CSS and HTML first
Defer non-critical JavaScript until after page load
Sequence loading based on user priority (content before ads)
Use dependency chains appropriately
Test loading waterfall in WebPageTest

Tools: WebPageTest (waterfall chart), Chrome DevTools (Network tab)

56. Prefetching and Preconnecting Implemented

Anticipating user actions and preparing resources in advance improves navigation speed.

How to implement/check:

Use dns-prefetch for external domains you’ll connect to
Implement preconnect for critical third-party resources
Use prefetch for resources needed on next page
Add prerender sparingly for high-probability next pages
Monitor impact on bandwidth usage

Tools: Resource hints validation in Chrome DevTools

57. Critical Rendering Path Optimized

Minimizing the steps required to render above-the-fold content improves perceived speed dramatically.

How to implement/check:

Inline critical CSS for above-the-fold content
Defer non-critical resources
Minimize render-blocking requests
Optimize DOM size and complexity
Test with Lighthouse’s Critical Request Chains audit

Tools: Critical CSS generators, PageSpeed Insights, Chrome DevTools

58. Animation Performance Optimized

Poorly implemented animations cause jank and layout shifts, harming user experience and Core Web Vitals.

How to implement/check:

Use CSS transforms and opacity for animations (GPU-accelerated)
Avoid animating properties that trigger layout (width, height, top, left)
Use will-change CSS property sparingly for complex animations
Test animations with Chrome DevTools Performance tab
Remove or simplify animations that cause jank

Tools: Chrome DevTools (Performance tab, Rendering tab with FPS meter)

59. Monitoring and Alerting Configured

Continuous monitoring catches performance regressions before they impact users and rankings.

How to implement/check:

Set up real user monitoring (RUM) with tools like SpeedCurve or Calibre
Configure alerts for Core Web Vitals threshold failures
Monitor synthetic testing regularly (daily or weekly)
Track performance trends over time
Investigate and fix performance regressions promptly

Tools: SpeedCurve, Calibre, Google Search Console (Core Web Vitals report)

60. Mobile Performance Prioritized

Most traffic comes from mobile; optimizing for mobile-first is essential for rankings and conversions.

How to implement/check:

Test all performance optimizations on mobile devices/networks
Use Chrome DevTools device emulation and throttling
Prioritize mobile Core Web Vitals scores
Consider mobile-specific optimizations (reduce image sizes further)
Test on actual devices when possible

Tools: PageSpeed Insights (mobile score), Chrome DevTools (device mode), WebPageTest (mobile testing)

Category D: Mobile Optimization

61. Mobile-First Indexing Compatibility

Google predominantly uses the mobile version of your site for indexing and ranking.

How to implement/check:

Ensure mobile and desktop versions have the same content
Verify structured data appears on mobile version
Check that images are accessible on mobile (not blocked by robots.txt)
Confirm mobile version loads quickly and functions properly
Monitor mobile usability issues in Search Console

Tools: Google Search Console (Mobile Usability Report), Mobile-Friendly Test

62. Responsive Design Implemented

Responsive design ensures your site works across all device sizes and orientations.

How to implement/check:

Use fluid grids and flexible images
Implement CSS media queries for breakpoints
Test across multiple device sizes
Ensure text is readable without zooming
Avoid horizontal scrolling

Tools: Chrome DevTools (device toolbar), BrowserStack, Responsive Design Checker

63. Viewport Meta Tag Configured

The viewport meta tag controls how your site scales on mobile devices.

How to implement/check:

Add <meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1"> to all pages
Verify the tag is present in HTML head
Test that content scales appropriately
Avoid using maximum-scale or disabling zoom (accessibility issue)

Tools: Mobile-Friendly Test, browser DevTools

64. Touch Elements Properly Sized and Spaced

Buttons and links must be large enough and spaced sufficiently for accurate touch interaction.

How to implement/check:

Make touch targets at least 48×48 pixels
Space interactive elements at least 8 pixels apart
Test tap targets on actual mobile devices
Fix mobile usability errors flagged in Search Console
Ensure form inputs are adequately sized

Tools: Google Search Console (Mobile Usability), Lighthouse

65. Mobile Navigation Usable

Mobile navigation should be intuitive and easy to use with one hand.

How to implement/check:

Implement a hamburger or bottom navigation menu
Ensure menu items are large enough to tap easily
Test navigation on various screen sizes
Make sure critical content is accessible within a few taps
Avoid complex nested menus on mobile

Tools: Manual testing, user testing tools

66. Text Readability on Mobile

Text must be legible without zooming on mobile devices.

How to implement/check:

Use at least 16px font size for body text
Ensure sufficient line height (1.5 or higher)
Maintain adequate contrast between text and background
Break up large text blocks into shorter paragraphs
Test readability on actual devices

Tools: Mobile-Friendly Test, manual testing

67. Pop-ups and Interstitials Mobile-Friendly

Intrusive interstitials harm mobile user experience and can result in ranking penalties.

How to implement/check:

Avoid pop-ups that cover main content on mobile
Use banners instead of full-screen overlays when possible
Ensure pop-ups have clear close buttons
Delay pop-up appearance until user has engaged with content
Make cookie consent notices unobtrusive

Tools: Manual testing, Google Search Console (Manual Actions)

68. Form Optimization for Mobile

Forms should be easy to complete on small screens with touch keyboards.

How to implement/check:

Use appropriate input types (tel, email

, date) to trigger correct keyboards

Minimize required form fields
Use large, tappable submit buttons
Enable autofill with appropriate autocomplete attributes
Provide clear error messages and validation

Tools: Manual testing, Lighthouse (user experience audits)

69. Mobile Page Speed Optimized

Mobile users often have slower connections; mobile-specific speed optimization is crucial.

How to implement/check:

Test page speed on mobile networks (3G, 4G)
Reduce image sizes specifically for mobile viewports
Minimize JavaScript execution on mobile
Use adaptive serving to deliver lighter resources to mobile
Prioritize critical mobile content loading

Tools: PageSpeed Insights (mobile), Chrome DevTools (throttling), WebPageTest

70. Accelerated Mobile Pages (AMP) Considered

While less critical than before, AMP can still benefit news and content-heavy sites targeting mobile performance.

How to implement/check:

Evaluate if AMP benefits your use case (news, blogs, e-commerce)
Implement AMP versions of key pages if beneficial
Validate all AMP pages for errors
Link canonical and AMP versions properly
Monitor AMP performance in Search Console

Tools: AMP Validator, Google Search Console (AMP Report)

71. Mobile Usability Errors Resolved

Google Search Console identifies specific mobile usability issues that need fixing.

How to implement/check:

Review Mobile Usability Report in Search Console regularly
Fix flagged issues (text too small, clickable elements too close, etc.)
Revalidate fixes through Search Console
Monitor for new issues after site updates
Set up alerts for mobile usability problems

Tools: Google Search Console (Mobile Usability Report)

72. App Indexing Implemented (If Applicable)

If you have a mobile app, app indexing helps connect app and web content in search results.

How to implement/check:

Implement app links and deep linking
Verify app indexing in Google Search Console
Add App Links or Universal Links markup
Test deep links function correctly
Monitor app indexing coverage

Tools: Google Search Console (App Indexing), App Links Assistant

73. Mobile-Specific Content Considerations

Ensure parity between mobile and desktop content to avoid indexing issues.

How to implement/check:

Verify all important content appears on mobile
Check that mobile doesn’t hide content behind tabs/accordions without expanding
Ensure images, videos, and other media load on mobile
Confirm metadata is identical across mobile and desktop
Test with Google’s Mobile-Friendly Test

Tools: Mobile-Friendly Test, Google Search Console (URL Inspection)

74. Geolocation Features Optimized

Mobile users often search with local intent; proper location handling improves relevance.

How to implement/check:

Implement location detection appropriately
Don’t force location permissions unnecessarily
Provide location-based content when relevant
Ensure location features enhance rather than hinder experience
Test location functionality across devices

Tools: Manual testing, browser location simulation

Category E: Security & HTTPS

75. Valid SSL/TLS Certificate Installed

HTTPS is a ranking factor and essential for user trust and security.

How to implement/check:

Purchase and install SSL certificate (or use free Let’s Encrypt)
Ensure certificate is valid and not expired
Verify certificate covers all subdomains needed
Test SSL configuration for vulnerabilities
Set up automatic renewal for certificates

Tools: SSL Labs Server Test, Why No Padlock, Qualys SSL Checker

76. HTTP to HTTPS Redirects Configured

All HTTP traffic should redirect to HTTPS to avoid duplicate content and security warnings.

How to implement/check:

Implement 301 redirects from HTTP to HTTPS for all pages
Update internal links to use HTTPS
Verify redirects work for all pages and subdomains
Check that redirect chain is minimal (one redirect max)
Test various HTTP URL variations

Tools: Redirect checker tools, Screaming Frog, server configuration

77. Mixed Content Issues Resolved

Loading insecure (HTTP) resources on secure (HTTPS) pages triggers browser warnings and blocks content.

How to implement/check:

Scan site for HTTP resources loaded on HTTPS pages
Update all internal references to use HTTPS or protocol-relative URLs
Contact third-party providers for HTTPS versions of their resources
Check browser console for mixed content warnings
Verify no mixed content after migration

Tools: Why No Padlock, Chrome DevTools (Console), Screaming Frog

78. HSTS (HTTP Strict Transport Security) Enabled

HSTS forces browsers to always use HTTPS, preventing downgrade attacks.

How to implement/check:

Add Strict-Transport-Security header in server configuration
Start with shorter max-age, then increase to 1-2 years
Consider includeSubDomains directive carefully
Submit domain to HSTS preload list after testing
Verify header is present using browser DevTools

Tools: HSTS Preload submission, Security Headers checker, browser DevTools

79. Security Headers Implemented

Additional security headers protect against various attacks and improve security posture.

How to implement/check:

Add X-Content-Type-Options: nosniff header
Implement X-Frame-Options: SAMEORIGIN or DENY
Configure Content-Security-Policy (CSP) header
Add X-XSS-Protection header (for older browsers)
Set Referrer-Policy appropriately

Tools: SecurityHeaders.com, Mozilla Observatory

80. Secure Cookie Attributes Set

Cookies should be configured securely to prevent hijacking and tracking issues.

How to implement/check:

Set Secure flag on all cookies
Add HttpOnly flag to prevent JavaScript access
Implement SameSite attribute (Strict or Lax)
Review cookie purposes and necessity
Test cookie configuration

Tools: Browser DevTools (Application/Storage tab), cookie scanners

81. Regular Security Audits Conducted

Proactive security monitoring prevents breaches that can harm rankings and reputation.

How to implement/check:

Run regular vulnerability scans
Keep CMS, plugins, and dependencies updated
Monitor for malware and hacking attempts
Review Google Search Console Security Issues report
Implement web application firewall (WAF)

Tools: Sucuri, Wordfence, Google Search Console (Security Issues)

82. Subdomain Security Verified

Insecure subdomains can compromise your entire domain’s security and reputation.

How to implement/check:

Ensure all subdomains have valid SSL certificates
Remove or secure abandoned subdomains
Implement same security headers across all subdomains
Monitor subdomain security separately
Use wildcard certificates or multi-domain certificates

Tools: Certificate transparency logs, subdomain discovery tools, SSL Labs

83. API Security Configured

Exposed or insecure APIs can leak data and create vulnerabilities.

How to implement/check:

Require authentication for sensitive API endpoints
Implement rate limiting to prevent abuse
Use HTTPS for all API communications
Validate and sanitize all API inputs
Monitor API access logs for suspicious activity

Tools: API security testing tools, server logs, rate limiting middleware

84. Backup and Recovery Plan Established

While not directly SEO, being able to recover from security incidents prevents catastrophic ranking loss.

How to implement/check:

Implement automated regular backups
Store backups securely off-site
Test restoration process periodically
Document recovery procedures
Keep backups for at least 30 days

Tools: Hosting backup features, VaultPress, UpdraftPlus, cloud storage

Category F: Structured Data & Schema Markup

85. Appropriate Schema Types Implemented

Structured data helps search engines understand your content and can generate rich snippets.

How to implement/check:

Identify which schema types apply (Article, Product, LocalBusiness, Recipe, etc.)
Implement relevant schema markup on appropriate pages
Use JSON-LD format (Google’s preference)
Include all required and recommended properties
Test implementation with Schema Markup Validator

Tools: Google Schema Markup Validator, Rich Results Test

86. JSON-LD Format Used

JSON-LD is the cleanest and most maintainable structured data format.

How to implement/check:

Place JSON-LD scripts in the HTML head or body
Ensure valid JSON syntax (no trailing commas, proper quotes)
Test that markup is properly formed
Prefer JSON-LD over microdata or RDFa
Keep schema scripts separate from other JavaScript

Tools: JSON-LD Playground, Schema Markup Validator

87. Organization Schema Added

Organization schema helps establish your brand identity in search results.

How to implement/check:

Add Organization schema to homepage
Include logo, contact info, social media profiles
Specify organization type accurately
Link to knowledge graph if available
Verify with Rich Results Test

Tools: Schema Markup Validator, Google’s Structured Data Testing Tool

88. Article/BlogPosting Schema Implemented

Article schema enables rich results for news and blog content.

How to implement/check:

Add Article or BlogPosting schema to all blog posts/articles
Include required fields (headline, image, datePublished, dateModified, author)
Add optional fields for better rich results (description, publisher)
Ensure images meet Google’s requirements (1200px wide minimum)
Test for rich result eligibility

Tools: Rich Results Test, Article Rich Results testing

89. Product Schema for E-commerce

Product schema enables rich snippets showing price, availability, and ratings in search results.

How to implement/check:

Add Product schema to all product pages
Include name, image, description, SKU, brand
Add price, currency, and availability status
Include aggregateRating and review markup if applicable
Test product rich results eligibility

Tools: Rich Results Test, Google Merchant Center (for product feeds)

90. LocalBusiness Schema Added

Local businesses benefit from schema showing address, hours, and contact info in search.

How to implement/check:

Implement LocalBusiness schema on homepage or contact page
Include complete NAP (name, address, phone)
Add business hours, geo coordinates, price range
Specify accurate business type (Restaurant, Attorney, etc.)
Verify information matches Google Business Profile

Tools: Schema Markup Validator, Rich Results Test

91. FAQ Schema Implemented

FAQ schema can generate expandable FAQ rich results in search.

How to implement/check:

Add FAQPage schema to pages with FAQ sections
Include each question and answer pair
Ensure content on page matches schema markup
Don’t use FAQ schema for advertising or inappropriate content
Test FAQ rich results eligibility

Tools: Rich Results Test, Schema Markup Validator

92. Breadcrumb Schema Added

BreadcrumbList schema helps search engines understand site hierarchy and can show breadcrumbs in results.

How to implement/check:

Implement BreadcrumbList schema on pages with breadcrumbs
List each breadcrumb level with name and URL
Maintain consistency with visible breadcrumbs
Test that breadcrumbs render in search results
Update dynamically as site structure changes

Tools: Rich Results Test, Schema Markup Validator

93. Video Schema Implemented

VideoObject schema can help videos appear in video search results with thumbnails and details.

How to implement/check:

Add VideoObject schema to pages with video content
Include name, description, thumbnailUrl, uploadDate
Specify duration, contentUrl or embedUrl
Ensure video is prominent on the page
Test video rich results eligibility

Tools: Rich Results Test, Schema Markup Validator

94. Review/Rating Schema Added (When Appropriate)

Review and rating schema can display star ratings in search results, increasing click-through rates.

How to implement/check:

Add Review or AggregateRating schema to product/service pages
Ensure ratings are genuine and match visible reviews
Include review author, date, rating value
Follow Google’s guidelines (no self-reviews, no paid reviews without disclosure)
Monitor for manual actions related to review spam

Tools: Rich Results Test, Google Search Console

95. HowTo Schema Implemented

HowTo schema creates rich results showing step-by-step instructions.

How to implement/check:

Add HowTo schema to instructional content
Include each step with name and text
Add images for steps when available
Include total time, materials, and tools if relevant
Test HowTo rich results eligibility

Tools: Rich Results Test, Schema Markup Validator

96. Event Schema for Event Pages

Event schema enables rich results showing event details, dates, and ticket information.

How to implement/check:

Add Event schema to event pages
Include name, startDate, endDate, location
Add performer, offers (ticket pricing), and organizer details
Specify eventStatus and eventAttendanceMode
Test event rich results

Tools: Rich Results Test, Schema Markup Validator

97. Structured Data Validation Passed

Syntax errors or missing required fields prevent structured data from working.

How to implement/check:

Test all pages with structured data using validation tools
Fix all errors identified in testing
Address warnings when possible (though not required)
Retest after making changes
Monitor Search Console for structured data issues

Tools: Schema Markup Validator, Rich Results Test, Google Search Console (Enhancements)

98. Structured Data Monitoring Active

Regular monitoring catches when structured data breaks after site updates.

How to implement/check:

Check Google Search Console Enhancements reports regularly
Monitor for errors and warnings
Set up alerts for structured data issues
Test structured data after major site updates
Track rich result appearance in search results

Tools: Google Search Console (Enhancements section), automated monitoring tools

99. Rich Results Eligibility Checked

Not all structured data qualifies for rich results; verify your implementation is eligible.

How to implement/check:

Use Rich Results Test for each schema type
Verify pages meet content and technical requirements
Check that rich results actually appear in search for target queries
Monitor Rich Results status report in Search Console
Address any eligibility issues identified

Tools: Rich Results Test, Google Search Console (Rich Results Status)

Category G: International SEO & Hreflang

100. Hreflang Tags Implemented Correctly

Hreflang tags tell search engines which language and regional versions of pages to show to different users.

How to implement/check:

Add hreflang tags to all language/regional variations
Use correct language and country codes (ISO standards)
Include self-referencing hreflang tag
Add x-default for fallback version
Ensure bidirectional linking between all versions

Tools: Hreflang Tags Testing Tool, Screaming Frog, Google Search Console

101. International Targeting Set in Search Console

For country-specific sites, setting the target country helps Google show results to appropriate audiences.

How to implement/check:

Set international targeting in Search Console (if using ccTLD or subdirectories)
Choose appropriate country target for each property
Use ccTLDs, subdomains, or subdirectories for regional targeting
Avoid setting country targeting for global sites
Monitor international search performance separately

Tools: Google Search Console (International Targeting settings)

102. URL Structure for International Sites Decided

Choosing the right URL structure (ccTLD, subdomain, subdirectory) impacts international SEO effectiveness.

How to implement/check:

Select structure based on resources and goals (ccTLDs for strong regional presence, subdirectories for simpler management)
Implement chosen structure consistently
Avoid mixing structures (e.g., using both /fr/ and fr.subdomain)
Consider SEO authority distribution across structure
Document decision and maintain consistency

Tools: Strategic planning, sitemap analysis

103. Language/Region Selector Implemented

Users should be able to easily find and switch between language/regional versions.

How to implement/check:

Add prominent language selector in header or navigation
Don’t auto-redirect based on IP (let users choose)
Remember user language preference
Link to equivalent pages across languages (not just homepages)
Make selector accessible and clear

Tools: Manual testing, user experience testing

104. Content Truly Localized

Automatic translations or duplicate content across languages provide poor user experience and limited SEO value.

How to implement/check:

Use human translation or professional localization services
Adapt content for cultural relevance, not just language
Localize currency, units, dates, and formatting
Create region-specific content when appropriate
Avoid low-quality machine translations

Tools: Professional translation services, localization platforms

105. Hreflang Errors Resolved

Common hreflang errors prevent proper international targeting.

How to implement/check:

Check for missing return links (each hreflang must be reciprocal)
Verify correct language/country code format
Ensure no conflicting signals (hreflang vs canonical)
Fix incorrect URL references in hreflang tags
Monitor hreflang issues in Search Console

Tools: Google Search Console (International Targeting report), Hreflang Tags Testing Tool

106. Language Metadata in HTML

HTML lang attribute helps browsers and assistive technologies understand page language.

How to implement/check:

Add lang attribute to html tag (e.g., <html lang="en">)
Use correct language codes for each page version
Keep lang attribute consistent with hreflang
Update dynamically for multi-language single-page apps
Test with screen readers for accessibility

Tools: Manual inspection, accessibility testing tools

107. International Sitemap Structure

For larger international sites, organizing sitemaps by language/region aids discovery.

How to implement/check:

Create separate sitemaps for each language/region (optional but helpful)
Use sitemap index file to organize multiple sitemaps
Submit all sitemaps to Search Console
Include hreflang in XML sitemaps (optional alternative to HTML tags)
Keep sitemaps organized and clearly named

Tools: Sitemap generators, Google Search Console

108. Geo-Targeting Signals Aligned

Multiple geo-targeting signals should be consistent, not contradictory.

How to implement/check:

Align hreflang, server location, ccTLD, and content language
Use local hosting or CDN for regional sites when possible
List local address and contact info for regional businesses
Avoid sending mixed signals (e.g., .co.uk domain with hreflang for US)
Consider local backlinks and citations

Tools: Manual audit, search result analysis

109. Currency and Locale Formatting

Display currency, dates, and numbers in formats appropriate for target regions.

How to implement/check:

Show prices in local currency for each region
Format dates appropriately (MM/DD vs DD/MM)
Use correct decimal and thousands separators
Display phone numbers in local formats
Adapt to local conventions (metric vs imperial)

Tools: Localization libraries, manual review

110. Subdomain/Subdirectory Strategy Implemented

For subdomain or subdirectory approaches, proper configuration is essential.

How to implement/check:

Set up Search Console properties for each language version
Implement proper internal linking between versions
Ensure consistent branding across regions
Configure server to handle language routing correctly
Test that search engines crawl all regional versions

Tools: Google Search Console, server configuration, Screaming Frog

Category H: Duplicate Content & Canonicalization

111. Canonical Tags Implemented on All Pages

Canonical tags tell search engines which version of a page is the primary one, preventing duplicate content issues.

How to implement/check:

Add self-referencing canonical tags to all pages
Point canonical to the preferred URL version
Use absolute URLs (not relative) in canonical tags
Place canonical in HTML head section
Verify canonical tags are present and correct on all pages

Tools: Screaming Frog, Google Search Console (URL Inspection)

112. Duplicate Content Identified and Resolved

Duplicate content dilutes ranking potential and confuses search engines about which version to rank.

How to implement/check:

Run site crawl to identify duplicate or near-duplicate pages
Use copyscape or plagiarism checkers for external duplication
Consolidate duplicate pages where possible
Apply canonical tags to preferred versions
Consider noindexing low-value duplicates

Tools: Screaming Frog (duplicate content report), Copyscape, Siteliner

113. Parameter Handling Configured

URL parameters (sort, filter, tracking) can create massive duplicate content without proper handling.

How to implement/check:

Identify all parameter variations using crawl tools
Configure parameter handling in Google Search Console
Use canonical tags pointing to clean URLs
Implement rel=”nofollow” on parameter links
Consider URL rewriting to eliminate parameters

Tools: Google Search Console (URL Parameters), Screaming Frog

114. WWW vs Non-WWW Consistency Enforced

Split versions waste link equity and create duplicate content.

How to implement/check:

Choose preferred version (www or non-www)
Implement 301 redirects from non-preferred to preferred
Update all internal links to use preferred version
Set preferred domain in Search Console
Verify Google indexes only preferred version

Tools: Redirect checkers, Screaming Frog, Search Console

115. Trailing Slash Consistency Maintained

Inconsistent trailing slash usage creates duplicate URLs.

How to implement/check:

Decide on trailing slash policy (with or without)
Configure server to redirect to consistent format
Update internal links to match policy
Check for indexation of both versions
Monitor for duplicate content from trailing slash variations

Tools: Screaming Frog, server configuration, Search Console

116. Printer-Friendly and Mobile Versions Handled

Separate printer or mobile versions can create duplicate content issues.

How to implement/check:

Use canonical tags from alternate versions to primary version
Consider eliminating separate print versions (use CSS print styles instead)
Ensure mobile version uses proper mobile signals (not separate URL if responsive)
Block alternate versions from indexing if necessary
Use dynamic serving or responsive design to avoid separate versions

Tools: Screaming Frog, manual testing

117. Syndicated Content Properly Attributed

If your content appears on other sites (or vice versa), proper attribution prevents duplicate content penalties.

How to implement/check:

Request syndication partners add canonical tags to your original
Add rel=”canonical” to external URL if syndicating others’ content
Include noindex on syndicated content on your site if appropriate
Wait to publish syndicated content until after the original
Monitor for unauthorized content scraping

Tools: Copyscape, Google Alerts, manual monitoring

118. Content Consolidation for Thin Pages

Multiple thin pages competing for the same keywords can harm rankings more than help.

How to implement/check:

Identify thin or similar pages targeting overlapping keywords
Consolidate related content into comprehensive pages
Implement 301 redirects from old pages to consolidated versions
Update internal links to point to new consolidated pages
Monitor rankings post-consolidation

Tools: Content audit tools, Google Analytics, Screaming Frog

119. Pagination Canonicalization Correct

Paginated series need proper signals to avoid having page 2, 3, etc. compete with page 1.

How to implement/check:

Use self-referencing canonicals on each paginated page (NOT pointing all to page 1)
Implement clear next/previous navigation
Consider view-all page with canonical if appropriate
Ensure all paginated pages are indexable
Test that Google understands pagination structure

Tools: Screaming Frog, Google Search Console (URL Inspection)

120. Cross-Domain Duplicate Content Handled

If you manage multiple domains with similar content, proper canonicalization prevents competition between them.

How to implement/check:

Decide which domain should be the canonical source
Add cross-domain canonical tags from duplicate to original
Consider consolidating domains if they serve the same purpose
Monitor that search engines respect cross-domain canonicals
Avoid having multiple domains targeting same keywords

Tools: Search Console (multiple properties), Screaming Frog

Category I: Status Codes & Redirects

121. 301 Redirects Used for Permanent Moves

301 redirects pass link equity and tell search engines a page has permanently moved.

How to implement/check:

Use 301 (not 302) redirects for permanent URL changes
Redirect old URLs to most relevant new URLs (not all to homepage)
Test that redirects return proper 301 status code
Monitor redirect implementation in Search Console
Update sitemaps to reference new URLs, not redirected ones

Tools: Redirect checker tools, Screaming Frog, server configuration

122. Redirect Chains Eliminated

Multiple redirects in sequence slow down loading and dilute link equity.

How to implement/check:

Audit site for redirect chains using crawl tools
Update redirects to point directly to final destination
Fix chains caused by multiple site migrations
Test redirect chains are resolved
Monitor regularly as sites evolve

Tools: Screaming Frog (redirect chains report), Sitebulb

123. 404 Errors Managed Appropriately

While some 404s are normal, excessive errors or 404s on important pages harm user experience and crawl efficiency.

How to implement/check:

Review 404 errors in Google Search Console regularly
Fix 404s for pages with backlinks or internal links
Create redirects for legitimate moved/deleted pages
Ensure 404 pages return actual 404 status codes (not soft 404s)
Create helpful custom 404 page with navigation options

Tools: Google Search Console (Coverage report), Screaming Frog, Ahrefs (broken links)

124. Soft 404 Issues Resolved

Soft 404s are pages that return 200 OK status but actually contain “not found” content, confusing search engines.

How to implement/check:

Identify soft 404s in Google Search Console
Configure server to return true 404 status code for missing pages
Ensure deleted pages don’t just show “page not found” with 200 status
Fix thin or empty pages that Google interprets as soft 404s
Test status codes with server response checkers

Tools: Google Search Console (Coverage report), HTTP status code checkers

125. Redirect Loops Detected and Fixed

Redirect loops prevent pages from loading and waste crawl budget.

How to implement/check:

Audit redirects to identify circular patterns
Fix server configuration errors causing loops
Test affected URLs resolve to final destination
Monitor for loops after redirect updates
Use crawl tools to detect loops proactively

Tools: Screaming Frog, Redirect Path browser extension, manual testing

126. 302 Redirects Converted (When Appropriate)

302 redirects are for temporary moves and don’t pass full link equity like 301s.

How to implement/check:

Audit site for 302 redirects
Convert 302s to 301s for permanent changes
Keep 302s only for genuinely temporary situations (A/B tests, maintenance)
Monitor that search engines respect redirect type
Document reason for any remaining 302s

Tools: Screaming Frog (redirect report), redirect checker tools

127. Custom Error Pages Optimized

Custom error pages provide better user experience and recovery options than generic server errors.

How to implement/check:

Create custom 404 page with search, navigation, and popular pages
Design 404 page consistent with site branding
Include proper 404 status code (not 200)
Add tracking to understand 404 error sources
Create custom error pages for other errors (500, 503) as well
Ensure custom pages are helpful and engaging

Tools: Manual testing, Analytics (tracking 404 pageviews)

Conclusion & Next Steps

Technical SEO forms the foundation that allows your content and link-building efforts to achieve their full potential. Without proper crawlability, fast page speeds, mobile optimization, and clean site architecture, even the best content struggles to rank competitively. The 127 points in this checklist represent the current best practices for ensuring search engines can efficiently discover, understand, and rank your content.

Remember that technical SEO is not a one-time project—it’s an ongoing process. As search algorithms evolve, new technologies emerge, and your site grows, continuous monitoring and optimization become essential. Start by conducting a comprehensive technical SEO audit using the tools mentioned throughout this guide. Identify your most critical issues—those preventing indexation, causing severe performance problems, or creating poor mobile experiences—and tackle them first for maximum impact.

Prioritization Framework

Phase 1 – Critical Issues (Week 1-2):

Indexability problems (robots.txt errors, noindex tags on important pages)
Major security issues (missing HTTPS, serious vulnerabilities)
Severe mobile usability problems
Broken critical functionality

Phase 2 – High-Impact Optimizations (Week 3-6):

Core Web Vitals improvements
Structured data implementation for key pages
Redirect and duplicate content issues
Site architecture improvements

Phase 3 – Refinement & Maintenance (Ongoing):

Additional structured data types
Advanced performance optimizations
International SEO (if applicable)
Regular monitoring and incremental improvements

Schedule quarterly comprehensive audits, monthly crawl error reviews, and weekly monitoring of Search Console for emerging issues. Document your technical SEO baseline and track improvements over time to demonstrate ROI and identify areas needing attention.

Ready to start? Run your site through Google Search Console, Screaming Frog, and PageSpeed Insights today. Download this checklist, prioritize your issues, and begin tackling them systematically. Technical SEO excellence is a journey of continuous improvement that pays dividends in visibility, traffic, and conversions.

Essential Technical SEO Tools

Google Search Console – Free essential tool for monitoring indexation, crawl errors, mobile usability, Core Web Vitals, and structured data. Your first stop for technical SEO insights.
Screaming Frog SEO Spider – Comprehensive crawler that identifies technical issues including broken links, duplicate content, redirect chains, and missing metadata. Free for up to 500 URLs.
PageSpeed Insights – Google’s official tool for measuring Core Web Vitals and identifying performance optimization opportunities with specific recommendations.
GTmetrix – Performance testing tool providing detailed waterfall charts, historical tracking, and actionable optimization advice.
Ahrefs or SEMrush – Enterprise SEO platforms offering site audits, backlink analysis, keyword research, and comprehensive technical SEO reporting.
Schema Markup Validator – Google’s tool for testing structured data implementation and identifying errors preventing rich results.
Mobile-Friendly Test – Quick tool to verify mobile optimization and identify mobile usability issues.
SSL Labs – Comprehensive SSL/TLS configuration testing to ensure security best practices.
Lighthouse – Built into Chrome DevTools, provides audits for performance, accessibility, SEO, and best practices.
Sitebulb – Advanced desktop crawler with visual reports, detailed audits, and helpful prioritization of technical issues.
LogFlare or Splunk – Log file analysis tools for understanding how search engines actually crawl your site.
WebPageTest – Advanced performance testing with detailed metrics, filmstrip views, and global testing locations.
Redirect Path – Browser extension showing redirect chains and status codes as you browse.
Cloudflare – CDN and security platform improving performance and protecting against threats.
WP Rocket or W3 Total Cache – WordPress caching plugins for significant performance improvements on WordPress sites.