How to create or update a disavow file in Google

A flower that represents Google Webmaster, beneath it sits the text "Disavow Backlinks."

A step by step guide on removing backlinks from your website using Google Search Console.

Google recommends that you only disavow backlinks if you believe that there are a considerable number of spammy, artificial, or low-quality links pointing to your site, and if you are confident that the links are causing issues for you.

Step One: Create or update the disavow file

Create a txt file and disavow domains using code similar to the one below, replacing domain.xyz with the domain you wish to disavow.

Please note that you should not include http or https in this file.

domain:domain.xyz

If you are seeking to update a disavow file we recommend following step two and three and downloading the existing file.

Step Two: Select the Property

The Google Search Console disavow page with a highlight on the select property dropdown.

Navigate to the link in the button below and in the domain that you wish update the disavow for from the Select Property Dropdown.

Step Three: Add or replace the disavow file

The Google Search Console Disavow Page for a chosen property, displaying the current disavowed domains.

Follow the steps below to update the disavow file.

A | Select Replace

The Google Disavow page for the chosen domain with a highlight on the Replace button on the bottom right.

Press the Replace button on the bottom right.

Please note that Replace will be named differently if you do not have an existing disavow file.

The modal that appears on the Google Disavow Page after you press Replace. Select Replace.

In the modal that appears, select Replace.

Please note that this pop up will not appear if you are adding it for the first time.

C | Select disavow file and upload

After pressing Replace, a file inspector will appear allowing you to select a file to upload. Find it, select it and press the Upload button on the bottom right of the inspector.

Navigate to the disavow file that you wish to upload, select it and upload it.

Any Questions?

We are actively looking for feedback on how to improve this resource. Please send us a note to inquiries@delasign.com with any thoughts or feedback you may have.

How to create or update a disavow file in Google

A step by step guide on removing backlinks from your website using Google Search Console.