What is Google Algorithm?
The Google search algorithm is a complex set of instructions, sequences, and actions used to retrieve and rank content from the search index based on the search query. It is also known as the Google core algorithm, which includes other specific algorithms.
When people mention the Google algorithm, most often, they are referring to the Ranking algorithm.
Google makes changes and improvements to their algorithms nearly every day, most of which are barely noticeable.
Several times a year, Google makes major changes to their search algorithms and systems. These significant broad updates are called core updates and are announced by Google.
Many people confuse algorithm updates with algorithms themselves. For example, Panda is the codename of a major change to Google’s ranking algorithm.
Why are Google Algorithms Important?
Algorithms are the core of Google search. The way Google ranks pages and understands search queries is only possible with these algorithms.
What Algorithms Does Google Use?
There are likely many algorithms that haven’t been publicly announced or named by Google. Here are some of the known ones:
Google Core Algorithm
The Google core algorithm is the main algorithm behind Google search. It incorporates other, more specific algorithms.
Ranking Algorithm
This algorithm is responsible for ranking pages on SERPs. There are many factors considered by the algorithm, but some confirmed ones include:
- Content
- Core Web Vitals
- HTTPS
- Mobile-friendliness
- Site speed
- Links
- Anchor texts
- Geographical locations (for local searches)
The most important update to Google’s ranking algorithm was called Panda (2011).
PageRank
PageRank is the algorithm that determines the importance of a page based on its link profile.
Spam Algorithm
This algorithm helps Google find pages and websites that violate Google’s Spam Policies, demote them in the search results, or remove them from the search index altogether. Penguin (2012) was the codename of a major update to this algorithm.
RankBrain
RankBrain is a machine-learning algorithm that helps Google understand and interpret search queries and return relevant results.
Hilltop
Hilltop is an algorithm used to find documents relevant to a particular keyword topic in news search. Google acquired it in 2003 and used it in the News results.
FAQs
Are Penguin, Panda, and Hummingbird Google algorithms? Although Penguin, Panda, and Hummingbird are often referred to as Google search algorithms, they are not. They are the codenames of major updates to Google’s algorithms.
