We have a domain and now we need to setup an online store. Which is better for search engines and for people (easy to remember, etc.) - a directory (site.com/shop/) or a subdomain (shop.site.com)?
A:
In my opinion a sub-domain is better to remember, but normally to this cases we use a directory.
Nathan Campos
2009-10-31 19:05:01
+1
A:
You could use both, and just redirect to one of them. Like, if you go for shop.site.com put a redirect from site.com/shop/.
Personally i prefer to use a subdomain because it "feels" cleaner and easier to remember, but i am not sure what search engines think is the best (if they actually think one is better than another)!
dr. squid
2009-10-31 19:09:18
+1
A:
Subdomain is the best option. Easy to remember, well organised (regarding file structure), and has no disadvantages regarding SEO (many multinational companies use it)
yoda
2009-10-31 19:09:50
A:
I personally like paths much better. Also, I'm quite sure that normal people have become used to the "www.something.tld" pattern - it is the usual way of communicating a web address in everyday life. I would bet that the majority of people would not know what a subdomain is, or how to type it into a browser. The organizing argument doesn't count in my opinion, as any kind of file structure can be achieved with directories and subdomains alike (at least in Apache).
Pekka
2009-10-31 19:39:23
A:
store.site.com is a MUCH better solution.
Generally regular users don't CARE about your URL, they just type in "site" into Google.
Then they click.
As long as your store has a prominent place on your site, it won't be a problem.
Apple does this very well:
A subdomain also keeps your "sales" apart from your "content" which different avenues in most businesses.
Atømix
2009-12-02 17:06:28