---
title: "Deindexation"
description: "Deindexation is the removal of a previously indexed page from a search engine's index, either intentionally (via noindex) or unintentionally (due to errors or penalties)."
category: "SEO Crawling & Indexation"
date: "2026-03-05"
url: "https://getbeast.io/glossary/deindexation/"
type: "glossary"
---

# Deindexation

**Category:** SEO Crawling & Indexation | **Updated:** 2026-03-05

Deindexation is the removal of a previously indexed page from a search engine's index, either intentionally (via noindex) or unintentionally (due to errors or penalties).

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## What Is Deindexation?
Deindexation occurs when a page that was previously in a search engine's index is removed. This can happen intentionally — when you add a noindex tag, return a 404/410 status code, or submit a removal request — or unintentionally, due to accidental noindex tags, server errors, or manual penalties.

## Why Deindexation Matters
Unintentional deindexation can cause **catastrophic traffic loss**. A misconfigured deployment that adds noindex to your entire site can deindex hundreds of pages within days. Intentional deindexation of thin or duplicate content improves your site's overall quality signal.

## How to Handle Deindexation
For intentional removal, use noindex meta tags (permanent) or Google's URL Removal Tool (temporary). For accidental deindexation, identify the cause, fix it, and request recrawling via Search Console. Monitor your indexed page count to catch drops early.

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## Related Terms

- [Indexation](/glossary/indexation/)
- [Noindex](/glossary/noindex/)
- [404 Error](/glossary/404-error/)
- [Content Pruning](/glossary/content-pruning/)
- [Thin Content](/glossary/thin-content/)

## Further Reading

- [Diagnosing Indexation Issues](/blog/indexation-issues/)

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*Part of the [GetBeast SEO Glossary](/glossary/). Visit [GetBeast.io](https://getbeast.io) for professional SEO and log analysis tools.*