Duplicate Content: Why It's More Common Than You Think

Very few sites intentionally publish duplicate content, yet it shows up constantly through printer-friendly pages, URL parameters, and www inconsistencies.

Pick One Canonical Version

Whether it's a URL with or without trailing parameters, decide on a single preferred version and use canonical tags consistently to point to it.

Watch for CMS-Generated Duplicates

Tag pages, category archives, and auto-generated print versions often create near-duplicate pages without anyone deciding to publish them.

Redirect, Not Just Canonicalize, When Possible

A 301 redirect consolidates both users and link authority onto the correct URL, which is a stronger fix than a canonical tag alone.

Next step: Use the www Redirect Checker to confirm your www and non-www versions are properly consolidated.