How can you access keyword data in the new Search Console?

What really changes with this new interface?

The new Search Console maintains access to the queries for which your pages rank. Google specifies this here to reassure: the transition to the new interface does not lead to any functional loss on this crucial point.

The Search Analytics—renamed "Performance" in the new version—still displays keywords, impressions, clicks, CTR, and average position. It's the same dataset, presented in a redesigned interface.

Why emphasize site verification?

Google conditions access to data on a verified property. No verification = no visibility on your queries. This point may seem obvious, but it becomes critical during agency migrations, property transfers, or redesigns where access is lost.

Verification can be done through several methods: HTML tag, file on the server, Google Analytics, Google Tag Manager, or DNS record. Each has its advantages depending on your technical architecture and access constraints.

What’s the difference compared to the old console?

Functionally, none on this specific point. The query data remains accessible in the same manner. The old console displayed this information under "Search Traffic > Search Analytics", while the new presents it in "Performance".

The interface has become more responsive and features advanced filters—period comparisons, URL segments, multiple simultaneous filters—but the data foundation remains the same. Google has simply reorganized navigation and improved UX.

• Property verification remains the absolute prerequisite for accessing keyword data
• The functionalities of the Search Analytics are preserved in the new version
• The "Performance" interface offers more advanced filters and comparisons than the old version
• Historical data is retained during the transition between the two versions
• Multiple verification methods exist depending on your technical architecture

Does this statement cover all real use cases?

Google stays surface-level. The statement does not mention the well-known limitations of this data: sampling beyond a certain volume, aggregation of long-tail variants under "other queries", and an update delay that can go up to 48-72 hours.

On high-traffic sites, you never have 100% of the queries. Google aggregates and filters. For thorough analysis, you need to cross-reference with Google Analytics and third-party tools—even if the convergence is never perfect due to differing tracking methodologies.

What nuances should be added about verification?

A rarely highlighted point: having multiple verified owners is a good practice. If your only verification method fails—accidental removal of the tag, poorly managed SSL certificate rotation, expiration of a DNS record—you lose access instantly.

Add at least two independent methods. For example: DNS verification + Google Tag Manager. This protects you against a single point of failure and facilitates access continuity during agency transitions or changes in technical teams. [To be verified] that delegated accesses via Search Console are maintained during property transfers—loss of history is often observed due to handling errors.

Is this functionality enough to drive an SEO strategy?

No. The Search Console gives you the real performance—what you actually rank for—but it doesn't tell you what you're missing. It doesn’t measure the gap between your semantic coverage and the total market potential.

To identify opportunities, you need to cross-reference with keyword research tools, analyze positions 11-20 (visible in the console but often overlooked), and monitor emerging search intents. The Search Console is a control dashboard, not a strategic radar.

What should you immediately check on your properties?

Audit the verification status of all your properties in the Search Console. A verification can expire or be revoked without clear notification—especially if it relied on an HTML file removed during an update or redesign.

List all your active verification methods for each property. If you only have one, add a second one right now. Prefer sustainable methods like DNS registration or Google Analytics, which are less sensitive to front-end changes.

How to secure data access during transitions?

When changing SEO providers or undergoing a technical migration, never remove the old verified owners before the new ones are operational and confirmed. Keep an overlap of a few weeks to prevent any access loss.

Document precisely which verification method is used and where it is implemented—root file, theme template, DNS at which registrar. This technical mapping saves a lot of time in case of problems and avoids frantic searches in the code or administration panels.

What errors should you avoid with the new interface?

Do not confuse "verified property" and "user with rights". You can be invited as a user on a property without having your account as a verified owner—which limits certain actions like managing settings or submitting sitemaps.

Avoid creating duplicate properties (www/non-www, http/https, with or without trailing slash). Consolidate on the canonical version of your site and use property sets to aggregate data if you have multiple subdomains.

• Ensure all your active properties have at least two independent verification methods
• Document each verification method and its precise technical location
• Add backup users with owner rights to prevent blockages
• Test access to the “Performance” data on each property to confirm active collection
• Set up email alerts in the Search Console to be notified of verification issues
• Create a quarterly review calendar for access and verifications