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How to Fix 'A Site With the Given URL Already Exists' in Site Kit by Google

34 threads Sep 7, 2025 Plugin → Site kit by google

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One of the most common issues users face after migrating a WordPress site or changing its domain is the frustrating error: "The request to the authentication proxy has failed with an error: a site with the given URL already exists." This guide will explain why this happens and walk you through the most effective solutions to get Site Kit by Google working again.

Why This Error Occurs

The 'Site Kit by Google' plugin creates a unique record on Google's servers that links your specific site URL to your Google account and its associated services (like Analytics and Search Console). This error arises when there is a mismatch between the URL stored in that record and the current URL of your WordPress site. Common scenarios that cause this include:

  • Site Migration: Moving your site to a new host without resetting Site Kit first.
  • Domain Change: Switching from a temporary/staging domain (e.g., yoursite.bluehost.me) to a live domain, or changing from HTTP to HTTPS.
  • URL Path Modification: Altering your site's structure, such as moving WordPress from a subfolder to the root directory.
  • Cloning or Copying a Site: Duplicating a site to a new URL, which copies the old Site Kit configuration.

In all these cases, the plugin tries to register the new site URL, but Google's service finds an existing record for the old URL and blocks the creation of a new, duplicate one.

Troubleshooting Steps and Solutions

Try these solutions in order. The first method is the most common fix.

1. Perform a Full Site Kit Reset (If You Have Access)

The ideal way to prevent this error is to reset the plugin before migrating your site or changing its domain. If you still have access to the site at its old URL, this is your best course of action.

  1. Revert your site's domain back to the original URL where Site Kit was working (this might involve temporary DNS or host file changes).
  2. Log into the WordPress admin.
  3. Navigate to Site Kit > Settings > Admin Settings > Reset Site Kit.
  4. Confirm the reset. This clears the local plugin data and, crucially, tells Google's service to remove the site record.
  5. Now, migrate your site or change the domain to its new URL.
  6. On the new site, install Site Kit and proceed with a fresh setup.

2. Standard Reset on the New Site

If you cannot access the old URL, your first step on the new site should be a standard reset. This doesn't always work for this specific error, but it's an essential first step to rule out local configuration issues.

  1. In your WordPress dashboard, go to Tools > Available Tools.
  2. Click Reset Site Kit.
  3. After resetting, try the setup process again.

3. Check and Standardize Your WordPress URLs

A frequent cause of mismatches is an inconsistency between the WordPress Address (URL) and the Site Address (URL). Both must be identical and use the correct protocol (HTTPS is strongly recommended).

  1. Go to Settings > General in your WordPress admin.
  2. Ensure both the WordPress Address (URL) and Site Address (URL) are exactly the same, including the use of https://.
  3. Save changes.
  4. Attempt to set up Site Kit again.

4. Implement a Proper HTTP to HTTPS Redirect

If the error mentions a change between http:// and https://, the core issue is that your site is accessible on both protocols. This confuses Site Kit during the setup process.

  • You must force all traffic to use HTTPS. This is a best practice for security and SEO. This redirect is typically configured in your .htaccess file (on Apache servers) or within your hosting provider's control panel (e.g., cPanel). Many hosting providers can assist with this, or you can use a reputable redirection plugin.

5. Request a Manual Reset of Site Records

If all else fails, the problem is that a site record for your URL is stuck on Google's service. Since you cannot access the old site to reset it, the 'Site Kit by Google' team can sometimes manually clear these records upon request.

To seek their help, be prepared to provide:

  • Your site's Site Health Information (found under Tools > Site Health > Info).
  • The old URL that was originally connected.
  • The new URL you are trying to connect.
  • A clear description of the migration process you followed.

Important Considerations

  • Google Account Access: If you are locked out because a previous developer used their personal Google account, a Site Kit reset on your WordPress site will break the connection to their account and allow you to connect your own. You will, however, need to reconfigure access to any existing Google Analytics or Search Console properties.
  • Staging Sites: The plugin is not designed to be moved between staging and production sites without a reset. The recommended workflow is to keep Site Kit active only on your live production site.

By understanding the link between your site's URL and Google's service, you can effectively troubleshoot and resolve this common post-migration error.

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