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Writer's pictureBrent D. Payne

HTML is missing or empty

This indicates that the specific URL has a page with no HTML content present.


Why is this important?

Having zero HTML content on a page means that nothing is displayed for both web users and search engines.


Normally, this problem indicates an oversight or configuration error.


What does the Optimization check?

The Optimization is activated for any internal page that returns a status code of 200 (OK) but lacks any substantive HTML content.


Examples that trigger this Optimization

The Optimization is activated on any internal page where the HTML is either entirely absent or the contents are blank:


<!DOCTYPE html><html><head></head><body></body></html>


How do you resolve this issue?

This Optimization is designated as 'Critical' because it implies a significant error which could negatively affect your site's organic search visibility. Addressing Critical issues promptly is highly advisable.


To resolve the problem, consider the following steps:

  1. Confirm if the HTML was ever present and determine the cause of its disappearance.

  2. Ascertain whether the content should be displayed. If yes, work to restore or republish the content. If the content is no longer relevant, return a 404 (Not Found) or 410 (Gone) status code.

While the second action item is urgent, do not neglect the first one. Unintended content removal might reoccur if not properly addressed.

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