Is Google penalizing sub domains

[mikeD]

I was considering adding some sub domains to a web site, but have heard from some sources that Google have penalized sub domains. Does anyone have any opinions on this?

[vitaplease]

To rephrase Googleguy: I wouldn't worry about this, mikeD. [webmasterworld.com]

check the thread - quite a lot of subdomains there..

[Macguru]

Well, it all depends on usage. If you have sufficient content (many, many pages) to justify each sub domain, it should not be a problem.

I just witnessed the disapearance of some low end abuser. He was using "cityname.domain.com" for hundreds of cities, country or states. Each sub domain was a single spammy doorway with a redirect to mother ship. The whole thing lasted less than 15 days. Mother ship is greyed out, and I guess not about to be seen again... ;)

[jackofalltrades]

Ive seen 3 sites in the top ten for a fairly popular phrase ("uk widget" - 1890000 sites).

Each of these sites are in the format of

www.(sponsorname).(companyname).co.uk (is this a subdomain?)

And each of these 3 sites have exactly same content.

(oh and the company in question has another 2 listings in the top ten - homepage and different content section).

Id say you would be fine Mike.

[Hunter]

I agree, if they are justified, they will be fine. I've had no problems with mine.

[paynt]

Hi mikeD, if you run a site search for canonicals you'll find many discussions. I still stand by all my comments in all of those discussions, if that's any help. I can tell you that I have seen very successful sites use and do quite well with them.