How to analyse subdomains

The structure of a domain name system is hierarchical. A second-level domains and subsequently lower ones are subdomains. The most common are third-level domains that have prefixes.

A subdomain example:

In theory, up to 127 levels of subordinated domains can be implemented, however, there is a limit of 255 symbols applied to the general domain name. As for a subdomain name, the number of symbols is restricted by 63.

Creating subdomains is not always the most appropriate way to structure information; in most cases, you should employ a traditional way of distributing data to thematic catalogs on a single source.

Generally, subdomains are applied to the sites including regional representatives or distinct information division within a general topic. Another reason for subdomain implementation is use of mobile version:

Example of a regional subdomain:

Use of subdomain for "Video" section:

In small and medium-sized projects data is structured by catalogs: information is distributed into sections and subsections. Thus, the whole amount of data is located on a single source and undergoes indexation entirely.

A subdomain is perceived by the search engines as a separate website; therefore indexing and promotion of a subdomain is also carried out apart from the main domain. Technically, a subdomain is created with a hosting provider; the server provides an individual file for every subdomain.

The easiest way to make a subdomain irrespective of the operated CMS is to create it on a hosting. The scheme of required actions will depend on a hosting provider that you decide to use. Normally, you just need to find Domains, My domains or Sites and domains sections in administration panel and set up a subdomain along with its IP-address.

Let us check out Serpstat instrument for subdomain analysis. To identify subdomains in the index, we need to enter the main URL-address and click "Site analysis" - "Domain analysis" - "SEO-analysis" - "Subdomains":

Subdomain search indicates the addresses and the number of key phrases used for page arrangement. A click on a number reveals detailed statistics with the indication of phrases position, frequency and paid rivals.

With the help of analysis, you can detect duplication matters that appear automatically while creating a subdomain and are allowed for indexing. You can also get a profound list of subdomains and promotion phrases for precise examination of competitors.

It is important to consider the following details when creating subdomains:

• For middle-sized resources it is recommended to use a standard system of sections and subsections instead of subdomains.

• It is essential to publish only unique content on regional subdomains.

• Use of similar requests for subdomains and main domain promotion may result in filter implementation carried out by the search engines that might consider these domains to be affiliates.

• Subdomains are traditionally used for forums, technical support pages, mobile versions of online platforms, etc.

• Serpstat subdomain analysis gives an opportunity to get profound lists of subdomains and promotion phrases relevant for checking your own portal as well as the competitors' projects.