Understanding how to create a good URL is one of the important steps in website optimization. A clear and structured URL not only helps users understand the page content but also helps search engines recognize the topic of the content more effectively.
In Search Engine Optimization (SEO) strategy, URL structure is part of on-page optimization that can influence a page’s ranking in search results. Therefore, it is important for website owners to understand the correct URL structure, common mistakes that often occur, and how to create their own URLs that are more SEO-friendly.
What Is a URL?
A URL (Uniform Resource Locator) is a unique address used to access a page on the internet. Each website page has a different URL so that users and search engines can easily find the content.
Example URL:
https://www.zenian.com/blog/cara-membuat-url
In this example, there are several important parts such as the domain, page category, and article slug that describe the content of the page.
URL Structure on a Website
In general, a URL structure consists of several main components that form a website page address.
1. Protocol
The beginning of a URL usually appears as http:// or https://. This protocol functions as the communication method between the user’s browser and the website server.
Example:
https://
Currently, using HTTPS is recommended because it provides a better encryption security system compared to HTTP.
2. Domain Name
The domain is the main address of a website that serves as the identity of a site on the internet.
Example:
www.zenian.com
A domain usually represents a brand or company name.
3. Path or Page Structure
This part shows the location of a page within the website structure.
Example:
/blog/cara-membuat-url
The path usually consists of the page category and the content title simplified into a slug.
Correct URL Structure for SEO
In SEO practice, a good URL structure must be easy to read for both users and search engines. Below are several principles for creating a proper URL structure.
1. Use the Main Keyword
A URL should contain the main keyword relevant to the content.
Example:
https://www.website.com/cara-membuat-url
By including keywords, search engines can more easily understand the topic of the page.
2. Use Short and Clear Words
A URL should not be too long. Use simple and easy-to-understand words.
Good example:
/cara-membuat-url
3. Use Hyphens (-)
To separate words in a URL, use a hyphen (-) instead of an underscore.
Example:
cara-membuat-url
4. Avoid Special Characters
URLs should not use symbols such as:
%, &, ?, =
These characters can make it difficult for search engines to read the URL.
Read Too: Is Yahoo a Search Engine? Explanation and Its Features
Incorrect URL Structure
Besides understanding the correct structure, it is also important to recognize examples of incorrect URL structures to avoid mistakes when creating website pages.
1. URL Is Too Long
Example:
https://website.com/blog/artikel/2024/09/15/cara-lengkap-mudah-dan-cepat-membuat-url-yang-benar-untuk-seo
URLs that are too long are difficult to read and less effective for SEO.
2. Using Random Numbers or Codes
Example:
https://website.com/page?id=12345
This type of URL does not explain the content of the page.
3. Not Using Keywords
Example:
https://website.com/post123
Search engines will have difficulty understanding the context of the page.
Tips for Creating a Good URL Structure for SEO
Below are several steps on how to create your own URL so it becomes more effective for SEO.
1. Determine the Main Keyword
Before creating a URL, determine the main keyword you want to target for the article or page.
Example:
cara membuat url
2. Simplify the Title into a Slug
Article titles are usually quite long, so they need to be simplified into a shorter slug.
Example:
Title:
Panduan Lengkap Cara Membuat URL yang SEO Friendly untuk Website
Slug:
cara-membuat-url
3. Use Lowercase Letters
It is recommended to use lowercase letters in URLs to keep them consistent and easy to read.
4. Remove Unnecessary Words
Some words such as dan, yang, atau, and untuk can be removed to make the URL shorter.
5. Use a Consistent URL Structure
A consistent URL structure helps search engines understand the overall structure of a website.
Example structure:
domain.com/kategori/judul-artikel
Understanding how to create a proper URL is very important in building an SEO-friendly website. A well-structured URL will make it easier for search engines to recognize the topic of the page and increase the chances of the page appearing in search results.
By implementing the correct URL structure, using relevant keywords, and avoiding common mistakes such as overly long URLs or random codes, your website can have a more optimal structure for SEO.
Want Your Website to Appear More Easily on Google?
URL structure is only one part of SEO optimization. To achieve maximum results, a website also needs the right SEO strategy, from keyword research, content optimization, to backlink development.
PT Zenian Digital Lab provides Search Engine Optimization (SEO) services that help improve your website’s visibility in search engines. With a well-measured SEO strategy, your website can reach more audiences and increase organic traffic.
Read Too: Recognize the Differences and Advantages of HTTPS Compared to HTT
