Algorithm Updates

What is Algorithm Updates?

In the SEO industry, algorithm updates refer to the modifications made by search engines, like Google, to their search algorithms. These updates can be minor tweaks or major overhauls, designed to enhance user experience by delivering more accurate and relevant search results. For businesses and website owners, these updates can significantly affect search rankings. Staying informed about algorithm updates is crucial, as it allows SEO professionals to adjust strategies and ensure that websites comply with the latest guidelines. Ignoring these updates can result in reduced visibility and traffic, impacting overall online performance.

Changes made to search engine algorithms to improve the quality and relevance of search results.

Examples

In 2011, Google introduced the Panda Update, which aimed to lower the rank of low-quality sites and return higher-quality sites near the top of the search results. This update affected nearly 12% of all search results.

In 2018, Google rolled out the Medic Update, which seemed to disproportionately impact health and medical websites. This update emphasized the importance of E-A-T (Expertise, Authoritativeness, Trustworthiness) in content.

Additional Information

Algorithm updates can be announced or unannounced, with the latter often causing confusion within the SEO community.

Major algorithm updates are often given names, either by Google or the SEO community, to help identify and discuss them more easily.

References

8 major Google algorithm updates, explained - Search Engine Land

Google Algorithm Update History [+ Latest SEO Changes] - Semrush

Google algorithm updates: the latest news and guides