Source– This post on How Google Search Algorithms works is based on the article “Decoding a leak: how Google Search’s algorithms work” published in “The Hindu” on 13th June 2024.
Why in the News?
Recently, an anonymous email claimed to have access to API documents of Google’s Search algorithm and reached Rand Fishkin, the CEO of SparkToro and an SEO expert.
About Google Search Algorithms
1. Google’s search algorithms are complex mechanisms used to retrieve and present information from its search index based on a given query.
2. These algorithms sift through billions of pieces of content to match phrases and keywords with the query. Google uses hundreds of specific criteria to rank content, including backlinks, page speed, and content quality.
3. The search company also regularly updates its algorithm to improve the quality of search results and stay ahead of spammers.
How Search Works?
There are three Stages of the Search Process:
1. Crawling: During the crawling stage, web crawlers discover and examine URLs on the internet. These crawlers automatically index the content they find on these URLs.
2. Indexing: In the indexing stage, the content contained in URLs is tagged with attributes and metadata to help categorize it.
3. Searching and Ranking: In the final stage, the user enters a query, and the search engine ranks and returns content based on the query.
How Google’s Algorithm Works
1. Google’s algorithm uses language models to understand the words in a query. It corrects spelling, uses synonyms, and determines the type of information being sought. The system can recognize local intent in queries and provide relevant local results.
2. The algorithm assesses the relevance of content using aggregated and anonymized interaction data. Matching keywords in the content to keywords in the query sends a strong relevance signal.
3. The algorithm looks for signals of expertise, authoritativeness, and trustworthiness. Signals include backlinks from prominent websites and content length.
4. The algorithm prioritizes more user-friendly websites. Factors such as mobile-friendliness, page load times, HTTPS usage, and the absence of intrusive ads send positive signals.
5. The algorithm considers information like location, search history, and user settings to personalize results. Previous activity on a user’s Google account also influences search results.
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