Hreflang implementation guide
Hreflang tells search engines which language or region version of a page to show. Incorrect implementation can lead to wrong versions being indexed or shown. This guide covers hreflang syntax, common mistakes (reciprocals, self-referencing), and how to validate and fix hreflang so the right pages rank in the right regions.
Syntax and placement
Use link rel="alternate" hreflang="x" for each version. You can use link tags in the head, HTTP headers, or sitemap. Each version must list all versions including itself. Use x-default for the fallback. Validate that URLs are correct and that every page in the set links to every other.
- Reciprocal links required
- Include self-reference
- x-default for default version