Text alternatives · WCAG 2.1 Level A
Server-side image maps must not be used
Ensure that server-side image maps are not used.
What it means
The server-side-image-map rule flags elements that fail this check. It maps to WCAG success criterion 2.1.1.
Who it affects
People who are blind or have low vision and use screen readers, and anyone whose images fail to load.
How to fix it
Replace server-side image maps with client-side maps or plain links.
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Run a free scan. If this rule fails, the results list the affected elements. Deque, which maintains axe-core, also documents this rule in detail: Deque University: server-side-image-map.
Quick answers
What does the axe rule "server-side-image-map" check?
Ensure that server-side image maps are not used.
How do I fix "Server-side image maps must not be used"?
Replace server-side image maps with client-side maps or plain links.
Who is affected by server-side-image-map failures?
People who are blind or have low vision and use screen readers, and anyone whose images fail to load.
Automated accessibility scan. Results are informational and may not identify every accessibility issue. This service is not legal advice, a compliance certification, or a substitute for comprehensive manual accessibility testing.