An XML sitemap is a file that helps search engines like Google understand the structure of your website. It contains your site's most important pages so that search engines can crawl and index them properly.

How an XML sitemap works

An XML sitemap file tells search engine crawlers of the pages on your site and provides critical information like:

• Page URLs. An entire list of web pages you'd like crawled.
• Last modified date. When each page was last modified.
• Change frequency. How frequently content on a page is changed (such as daily, weekly, or monthly).
• Priority. A number between 0.0 and 1.0 representing the priority of a page compared to others.
• Sitemap index. Assists in organizing multiple sitemaps.

Why an XML sitemap is important

An XML sitemap index file plays a major part in having your site found and ranked appropriately. Here is why it is so important.

• Greater search engine visibility. Sitemaps allow the search engines to find and index your content faster.
• Better SEO performance. Well-structured sitemaps assist search engines in comprehending your most valuable pages.
• Supports large websites. Websites with hundreds of pages (such as eCommerce websites) are aided by sitemaps to prevent overlooked content. Having multiple sitemap files assists in managing indexing better.
• Helps with new websites. If your site has few backlinks, XML files help search engines find your pages more easily.

How to create an XML sitemap

Building an XML sitemap doesn’t have to be complicated. Here’s how to do it.

1. Use a sitemap generator. There are third-party tools like Yoast SEO (for WordPress) or online sitemap generators that can do it automatically for you.
2. Verify your CMS settings. Most website builders create XML sitemaps for you with no extra effort on your part.
3. Structure the file properly. An XML sitemap needs proper XML structure and to contain URLs, last modified dates, and priorities.
4. Submit to Google Search Console. Once you've created one, submit your sitemap to Google so it can start crawling your site efficiently.

FAQs about XML sitemaps

Why do I need an XML sitemap?

An XML sitemap helps search engines discover and index pages on your site, especially if your site is new, large, or has complex navigation. It improves your ranking opportunities higher in search results.

How often should I update my XML sitemap?

Your sitemap should be updated whenever you create, remove, or change important content. If your site is regularly updated, you can use automated tools that can help keep your sitemap current.

How does an XML sitemap differ from an HTML sitemap?

An XML sitemap is search engine-friendly and helps search engines crawl your site efficiently. An HTML sitemap is a visual map designed to help website visitors navigate around your content.

How do I submit my XML sitemap to Google?

Head to Google Search Console (also known as Google Webmaster Tools), choose Sitemaps, enter your sitemap URL (usually yoursite.com/sitemap.xml), and click on Submit. Google will start to crawl your site based on your sitemap.

How does an XML sitemap help with SEO?

An XML sitemap assists search engines in finding and indexing your website's pages faster, enhancing your ability to rank higher on search pages. It keeps vital pages from being overlooked, particularly on complex or big websites.

Build a search-friendly website with B12

With B12’s AI-powered website builder, you don’t have to worry about technical SEO details like XML sitemaps. Your site’s structure stays optimized from day one, ensuring search engines can easily find and rank your content. Get started today!