Understanding Google’s Algorithm Update and their Impact on SEO

 

User demands are evolving, and so are how they browse. Gone are the days when browsing means surfing the web relentlessly for hours for discovering something as simple as business history. Now, internet users want everything at their fingertips, which is why businesses are working with search engine optimization consultants to climb to the top of search engines.

 

When we talk about SEO, Google can’t be left behind. It is one of the most complex and sophisticated search engines known for its dynamic algorithm updates. Every year, the search engine giant rolls out updates to make user experiences better. These updates affect how websites rank on SERPs, which is why it’s crucial to keep up with them with professional SEO experts in Pittsburgh. 

 

Wondering what are these algorithm updates and how they impact your traffic? Well, here’s a list of Google’s most debated Algorithm updates as an explainer! 

 

#1 Panda Update

In 2011, Google rolled out its Panda update, aimed at improving the quality of search results. This update targets low-quality websites having thin, duplicate, or irrelevant content. Websites hit by this update experienced significant drops in their search engine rankings. To avoid being penalized by Panda, website owners should focus on creating high-quality, original content that provides value to their audience.

 

#2 Penguin Update

The Penguin update was introduced in 2012. It focuses on penalizing websites that use spammy link-building tactics to manipulate search engine rankings. Websites that engage in keyword stuffing, link buying, and other black hat SEO practices are more likely to be penalized by this update. To avoid being affected by Penguin, website owners should focus on building high-quality, relevant links from reputable sources.

 

#3 Hummingbird Update

Google's Hummingbird update was released in 2013. It brought significant changes to how search queries are processed because this update introduced the concept of semantic search, which aims to understand the intent behind a user's search query. It compelled website owners to focus on creating content using natural language for searchers.

 

#4 Mobile-Friendly Update

In 2015, Google rolled out its Mobile-Friendly update, which aimed at improving the user experience for mobile users. This update prioritizes mobile-friendly websites in search engine rankings, and websites that are not mobile-friendly may experience drops in their rankings. Website owners should ensure that their websites are optimized for mobile devices to avoid being penalized by this update.

 

#5 RankBrain

RankBrain, introduced in 2015, is an AI-based algorithm that uses machine learning to process search queries. This algorithm aims to better understand the intent behind a user's search query and provide more relevant search results. Website owners should focus on creating high-quality, relevant content that satisfies user intent to rank well in search results.

 

Conclusion

Do you think Google rolled out any updates after RankBrain? Stay tuned for more interesting updates and ensure to work with local search engine optimization services or national SEO services to stay ahead of the curve with your SEO efforts. While these updates can be daunting, a B2C or B2B SEO agency can help you to adopt a strategy that can aid you stay-up-to-date according to the industry standards.