GLOSSARY TERM

XML Sitemap

An XML sitemap is a machine-readable file (usually sitemap.xml) listing the URLs you want search engines to crawl, with optional metadata like last-modified dates. It aids discovery but can't force indexing.

Updated June 2026

What it means

An XML file (usually sitemap.xml) listing the URLs you want crawled, with optional metadata.

Why it matters for indexing

It's the most important passive discovery signal — but it only lists URLs, it can't force indexing.

How to check it

Submit it under Search Console → Sitemaps and watch the “Discovered URLs” count.

How FastIndexing helps

We import URLs straight from your sitemap and keep only indexable ones before pushing them.

Frequently asked questions

Why submit a sitemap to Google?

It tells Google which URLs exist and should be crawled, speeding discovery — especially for new, large, or poorly-linked sites. It doesn't guarantee indexing: Google still decides per page.

Does Google still use sitemaps?

Yes — Google still reads sitemaps submitted in Search Console. (The old sitemap-ping endpoint was retired in late 2023, so pinging now applies only to Bing / IndexNow.)

When should you submit your sitemap to Google?

Once, in Search Console, after the site is live — then keep it updated automatically. Resubmitting manually isn't needed for routine changes.

How Google indexing works

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