Connect to Google Search Console

How to Create Your Google Service Account (JSON Key)

This key is the “bridge” that allows the plugin to talk securely to Google Search Console and the Indexing API. You only need to do this once.

Step 1: Create the Account

1. Go to the Google Cloud Console Service Accounts page.
2. Select your project (or create a new one named “FSP Automation”).
3. Click + CREATE SERVICE ACCOUNT at the top.
4. Fill in the details (as seen in your screenshot):
   • Service account name: Enter fsp-writer (or any name you like).
   • Service account ID: This auto-generates an email address (e.g., fsp-writer@project-id...). Copy this email address; you will need it for Step 3.
   • Description: “Key for Full Self Posting plugin.”
5. Click Create and continue.
6. (Optional) For “Role,” choose Basic > Owner to ensure full permissions, then click Done.

Step 2: Get the JSON Key

1. In the list of service accounts, click on the Email of the account you just created.
2. Go to the KEYS tab at the top.
3. Click ADD KEY → Create new key.
4. Select JSON and click CREATE.
5. A .json file will download to your computer. Open this file with Notepad or a text editor. Copy the entire text inside.
6. Paste this text into the “Google Service Account (JSON)” field in the FSP Plugin settings.

Step 3: Connect to Search Console (Crucial!)

The key is created, but you must tell Google Search Console to trust it.

1. Go to Google Search Console and select your property.
2. Go to Settings (bottom left) → Users and permissions.
3. Click ADD USER.
4. Email address: Paste the Service Account email you copied in Step 1 (the one ending in .iam.gserviceaccount.com).
5. Permission: Select Owner (Required for the Indexing API to work).
6. Click Add.