IndexNow 202: Accepted
Why IndexNow returns HTTP 202 while key validation is pending and when to retry.
Updated September 2, 2026
Meaning
The endpoint received a valid-looking request and will validate the key asynchronously. A 202 is not an error.
Checks
- Key file
- Confirm the file is public, returns 200, and contains only the exact key.
- Host consistency
- The host, keyLocation hostname, and every submitted URL hostname must match.
Retry policy
Do not loop on 202. Verify the key once, then wait before submitting only genuinely changed URLs.