The URL in question features at least one outward anchor link that points to LocalHost or the IP address 127.0.0.1.
Why is this important?
LocalHost serves as the hostname to identify the local computer, and 127.0.0.1 represents its IP address. These address forms are convenient for website development, as they simulate an online environment offline. Prior to a website going live, such references should be replaced with the actual domain name.
Links persisting to LocalHost post-launch are not publicly available, thereby necessitating removal or update.
What does the Optimization check?
This Optimization is activated when there's an internal URL including an outbound anchor link with a LocalHost or 127.0.0.1 reference.
Examples that trigger this Optimization:
Links similar to the ones below will activate the Optimization.
An anchor with a URL pointing to 127.0.0.1 including port number
An anchor with a URL referencing 127.0.0.1 without a port
<a href="http://127.0.0.1/test">Example</a>
An anchor with a LocalHost URL including a port number
An anchor with a LocalHost URL omitting the port
<a href="http://localhost/sample">Sample</a>
How do you resolve this issue?
Labeled 'Critical', such issues can significantly disrupt SEO efforts and warrant immediate attention.
Identify all anchor elements linking to LocalHost or 127.0.0.1 and address them individually. This might entail a review of the link-generating code.
It's advisable to substitute these links with ones accessible to the public, or if not feasible, to eliminate those links altogether.
How do you get more data from Sitebulb?
Within the URL List, select the Optimization Details to open a detailed view for each URL in a new window.
This unveils any outgoing anchor links that refer to LocalHost or 127.0.0.1, with such links distinctly marked in the HTML view. Utilize the scrollbar on the right to locate and examine the highlighted links.