A downloadable file is public content too
Google's PDF documentation explains that these files can appear in search. Removing a homepage link does not necessarily make an old menu disappear.
Treat a seasonal change as a publishing task. List the current HTML page, PDF, map-menu link and managed partner entries. Check actual contents as well as filenames.
A short handover list
- Which version is current?
- What happens when visitors open the old address?
- Who updates externally managed surfaces?
Label archived menus clearly if you retain them for historical reasons. Reopen the links guests actually use after the change. The repair is complete when the route leads to the right information.
Sources and background
- Google: PDFs in search results · 2011-09-01
Editorial note: This series uses retrospective editorial dates; the text and illustration were actually created on 17 September 2026. Practical examples are editorial recommendations, not measured customer outcomes.
Back to the blog