Google or type in a URL?

What does it mean to Google or type in a URL?

Before delving deeper, it is important to understand what each of these actions entails:

1. Search Google

Al Google searchyou enter keywordsYou can enter your search results, questions or phrases in the search bar. Google processes this information and shows you a list of relevant results based on its algorithm.

The web links displayed in the SERPs will appear in order according to the following criteria SEO positioning. Those urls that are best optimised for a keyword The particular search will take precedence as a response over others.

Example:
If you write "easy cooking recipes". in Google, you will receive a list of web pages in the form of urls, blogs, videos and more, which answer that query.

2. Write a URL

When you type in a URL (Uniform Resource Locator), you are directly entering the address of a specific website to access it.

Example:
If you write "www.google.com" in the browser bar, you will go directly to the Google homepage. This is called "direct traffic". 

Why does it say Google or type in a URL?

The sentence "Google or type in a URL". appears as a reminder in the search bar of browsers such as Chrome. This bar, known as omniboxcombines the functionality of a search engine with that of an address bar, allowing you to perform both actions from the same place.

Differences between searching on Google and typing a URL

While both options have their advantages, choosing one or the other will depend on what you need to do. Here are the key differences:

While both options have their advantages, choosing one or the other will depend on what you need to do. Here are the key differences:

How to search Google or type a URL?

Google search

1. Open your browser.
2. Click on the search bar (omnibox).
3. Write your query, for example: "Italian restaurants near me.
4. Press Enter and browse the results.

Write a URL

1. Open your browser.
2. Click on the address bar.
3. Enter the full URL, such as "www.example.com".
4. Press Enter to go directly to the site.

Advantages and disadvantages of each method

Advantages of searching on Google

• Access to multiple sources: You find a variety of results, from blogs to videos.
• Correction of errors: If you misspell something, Google usually corrects it automatically.
• Relevance: Google prioritises useful results based on your query.

Disadvantages of Googling

• Unnecessary results: You may receive too many options, not all of them relevant.
• More time: You have to manually filter the information.

Advantages of writing a URL

• Speed: You go directly to the site without going through intermediaries.
• Accuracy: Ideal for accessing a specific site that you already know.

Disadvantages of writing a URL

• Dependence on prior knowledge: You must know the exact address.
• Typographical errors: A mistake in typing the URL can take you to the wrong site.

Practical examples

1. When you Google:
   He writes: "best flight deals"..
   Result: Google will show you sites like Skyscanner, Kayak and other options.
2. When you write a URL:
   Introduce: "www.skyscanner.es".
   Result: You will go directly to the Skyscanner homepage.

What is a URL and how to write it correctly?

A URL (Uniform Resource Locator) is the unique address that identifies and locates a web page on the internet. It functions as the digital equivalent of a home address, allowing browsers to directly access a specific resource on the web, such as a page, file or image. Without a URL, it would be impossible to accurately navigate the vast amount of content available online.

The URL directs the user to the correct website, and also communicates information on how to access that content through specific protocols, such as HTTPS to ensure a secure connection. Each URL is unique and contains several components that give it its structure.

Structure of a URL:

1. Protocol: Defines how information is transferred between the browser and the server. Example: https:// (secure connection) or http:// (unencrypted).
2. Domain: This is the main name of the website, such as www.google.com. This is the general entry point to the site.
3. Route: Indicates a specific location within the website, such as www.google.com/maps.
4. Optional parameters: Additional information to filter or customise content, e.g. ?search=restaurants.
5. Anchor: An in-page reference, such as #section1, which takes the user directly to a specific part of the content.

How to write a URL correctly

• It includes the protocol: It always starts with https:// o http://as appropriate.
• Verify the domain: Make sure the name of the site is spelled correctly. A typo can lead you to an unwanted site.
• Add the exact route: If you want to access a specific page, include the full path after the domain.
• Avoid unnecessary characters: URLs should be clear and should not include spaces or special characters.

Practical example of a complete URL:

https://www.ejemplo.com/blog/como-escribir-una-url-correctamente

• Protocol: https://
• Domain: www.ejemplo.com
• Route: /blog/ how-to-write-a-url-correctly

Writing and understanding a URL correctly not only ensures that you reach the desired content, but also improves your experience of navigating the web safely and efficiently.

Frequently asked questions about searching Google or typing in a URL

1. Which is better, searching or typing a URL?

It depends on the situation. If you don't know exactly what you are looking for, it is better to use Google. If you already know the site you want to go to, typing the URL is more efficient.

2. How to avoid mistakes when writing a URL?

• Be sure to include https:// if necessary.
• Check the spelling of the domain before pressing Enter.
• Use bookmarks in your browser for sites you visit frequently.

3. What happens if you type the wrong URL?

You may receive an error message (404 Not Found) or be redirected to a different, often unrelated site.

How to improve your browsing experience

1. Use the bookmarks bar: Save frequently visited URLs for quick access.
2. Take advantage of the browser's suggestions: When typing in the search bar, browsers often offer auto-completion for queries or URLs you have already visited.
3. Know the relevant keywords: Use clear and specific terms when searching on Google. 

Google search vs. typing a URL

Both options are powerful tools that complement each other. Google search is ideal when you need to explore options or find general information. On the other hand, enter a URL is the most direct way to access a specific site.

Understanding when and how to use each method will help you navigate the internet more efficiently and optimise your online experience.

If you have more questions about surfing the internet, leave us a comment or contact us for more tips!

"He who seeks finds, but the search itself is an art in itself. Therefore, being clear about what you want to find defines the keywords you will use to get to what you want". Juan Carlos Meneses .- SEO Expert