Canonical Tag
Tells Google which version of a page is the “real” one when duplicates exist.
What it means
A canonical tag (rel="canonical") is an HTML element in a page’s <head> that points to the URL Google should treat as the authoritative version. It resolves duplicate-content problems caused by URLs with tracking parameters, sorting filters, print views, or www/non-www variations.
How it affects your SEO
Without a canonical tag, Google may pick its own preferred URL (or index several), splitting ranking signals across copies and diluting your rankings. A correct canonical consolidates link equity and content signals onto one URL, so the page ranks as strongly as possible.
Canonical Tag — frequently asked questions
Does a canonical tag pass all link equity to the chosen URL?
Yes — a correct canonical consolidates links and content signals onto the preferred URL, so the page ranks as strongly as possible instead of splitting authority across duplicates.
Will Google always honor my canonical tag?
Not always. Google treats canonical as a strong hint, not a command. If your tag conflicts with signals like internal links or redirects, Google may choose a different URL.
Related SEO terms
Google’s three speed-and-stability metrics: LCP, INP, and CLS.
Structured data that labels content (reviews, FAQ, products) for search engines.
How many pages Google will crawl on your site per day.
A file that tells crawlers what they may and may not crawl.
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