What is the first step in troubleshooting a website issue?

The first step in troubleshooting a website issue is to identify the problem. This crucial step involves understanding exactly what is wrong with the website and gathering initial observations about the symptoms. By pinpointing the specific issue, such as a broken link, loading error, or functionality problem, it becomes easier to address the situation effectively.

Identifying the problem allows for targeted investigation and helps to ensure that any subsequent steps in the troubleshooting process are relevant and efficient. Without clearly understanding the nature of the problem, it would be difficult to gather and analyze data, design appropriate solutions, or test them effectively. This foundational step ensures that time and resources are spent appropriately on the actual issues at hand.