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Resources formatted as Page Links

  • Writer: Meredith's Husband
    Meredith's Husband
  • Feb 27
  • 2 min read

Introduction

If you’ve performed a Semrush audit on your website, you may have come across a notice about resources formatted as page links. While not a critical issue, addressing it can enhance your site’s user experience. This guide explains what this issue means and provides step-by-step instructions to resolve it.


What Does It Mean?

Resources formatted as page links typically occur when an image or other resource links to itself. For example, clicking on an image might open the image in a new tab or as a larger version on a separate page. This behavior often happens by default in WordPress due to themes or plugins.


Is It a Problem?

While this issue isn’t necessarily harmful for SEO, it can impact usability. If the behavior is unintended, it might confuse users and disrupt their experience. However, there are legitimate cases where this functionality is intentional, such as when using lightbox settings to display larger versions of images.


How to Identify the Issue

  1. Open your Semrush audit and locate the notice about resources formatted as page links.

  2. View the affected pages listed in the report.

  3. On each page, click on all the images or resources.

  4. Note any that open in a new tab, a new window, or as a standalone image.


How to Fix the Issue

  1. Decide whether the linking behavior is necessary. For example, if a thumbnail needs to open a larger version, keep it. If not, proceed to the next step.

  2. Log in to your website editor (e.g., WordPress or Squarespace).

  3. Locate the image or resource with the self-linking issue.

  4. Remove the hyperlink pointing to the image URL.

  5. Save your changes and verify that the issue is resolved.


Why This Matters

Addressing this notice ensures that your website provides a smooth user experience. By fixing unnecessary links, you avoid confusing visitors and make your site more professional and user-friendly.


Conclusion

Although resources formatted as page links are a minor issue, resolving them can significantly improve the usability of your website. By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your site meets both user expectations and best practices.


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