A complete list of Google algorithms since the beginning

 

SEO methods are constantly changing; This is why website SEO in 2023 is very different from 2010, and all this is due to the constant updating of Google algorithms and all search engines so that they can provide the best results according to the needs and wants of users. At the same time, in addition to updating the old algorithms, Google has introduced new algorithms, each of which has specific tasks. In the following, we will introduce the most important Google algorithms.

 

Google's algorithm is a complex set of rules and calculations used to determine the order in which search results are presented. It considers various factors like relevance, quality, and user experience to deliver the most helpful and accurate results in response to a user's query.
Generally, Google updates are divided into two categories: major updates and minor updates. These small updates sometimes occur several times a day, but their effect is not enough for us to notice a particular change. On the other hand, Google's big search engine algorithms happen annually and are much more noticeable that even Google approves the new update and chooses a name for it.
Since most of the names of Google's initial algorithms were taken from animals, many called it Google's virtual zoo.
 

 

 

Many algorithms introduced by Google have a direct impact on the traffic status of your site. Of course, it cannot be said for sure that all these algorithms are directly related to your site's SEO; But as an SEO expert, it is better to always be aware of the new updates of Google algorithms. In the following, we will see the list of Google algorithms.
 

• PageRank
• Google Dance
• Google Sandbox
• Hilltop Algorithm
• Caffeine Algorithm
• Panda
• Freshness Algorithm
• Venice Algorithm
• Pirate Algorithm
• EMD Algorithm
• Penguin
• Page Layout Algorithm
• Zebra Algorithm
• Hummingbird
• Payday Loan
• Pigeon
• Mobilegeddon Algorithm
• RankBrain Algorithm
• Possum Algorithm
• Fred Algorithm
• Medic Algorithm
• Bert Algorithm
• Mobile First Index Algorithm
• E-A-T (Expertise, Authoritativeness, Trustworthiness)
• MUM Algorithm

 

 

Before discussing more about Google algorithms, it is good to know that many SEO professionals when they see that website traffic has dropped unpredictably, the first thing they look for is spam, backlink checking, or internal SEO. While one of the things they may not consider is the updates that Google makes on its SEO algorithms. After reading this article, you will understand the importance of this issue and realize that Google's algorithms are one of the things that should be checked continuously.

 

 

PageRank 1998

 

Google PageRank Algorithm, developed by Larry Page and Sergey Brin, is a foundational component of Google's search ranking system. Introduced in the late 1990s, PageRank revolutionized how search engines assessed the importance of web pages. Instead of merely considering the content on a page, PageRank assigns a numerical value to each page based on the quantity and quality of links pointing to it. Essentially, it views links as endorsements—if a page is linked to by many other reputable pages, it's considered more valuable. This approach significantly contributed to the accuracy and relevance of Google's search results, forming the basis for the sophisticated ranking algorithms that power the world's most widely used search engine today. At first, this algorithm checked the links that were given to each domain or page, and accordingly, any site that had more and more valid links was placed in the top ranks, gradually, Google developed the PageRank algorithm with the aim of preventing the creation of mass and paid backlinks.

 

 

Google Dance 2004 

 

The segment of the algorithm known as the Google Dance induces fluctuations in the Search Engine Results Pages (SERPs) when modifications such as link building or content updates are made to a page. Often perceived as a tactic to mislead individuals into believing their rankings have dropped, it can lead them to undo recent changes. However, this strategy can backfire as it signals to Google that attempts are being made to manipulate rankings. The term "Google dance" is utilized in the SEO community to depict brief fluctuations in rankings on Google's SERPs. This occurrence is particularly noticeable with new websites or pages as Google is in the process of determining their optimal ranking positions.

 

 

Google Sandbox 2004

 

The Google Sandbox is a concept in the realm of SEO that refers to a hypothetical filter or probationary period applied by Google to new websites. The idea suggests that when a website is newly launched, it undergoes a period of lower search visibility and ranking, often making it challenging to achieve prominent positions on the Search Engine Results Pages (SERPs). This phase, colloquially known as the "sandbox," is believed to be a precautionary measure by Google to assess the credibility and legitimacy of new websites before allowing them to compete more prominently in search rankings. While not officially confirmed by Google, the sandbox concept has been widely discussed and debated within the SEO community.

 

 

Hilltop Algorithm 2004

 

The Hilltop Algorithm is a pivotal concept in the realm of search engine algorithms, introduced by Krishna Bharat and George A. Mihaila at Google in the early 2000s. Unlike traditional algorithms that primarily focused on analyzing content and link popularity, Hilltop brought a novel approach by considering expert documents or "hubs" within specific topic categories. This algorithm aimed to provide more contextually relevant results by not only evaluating the content of a page but also identifying pages considered authoritative on a given subject. While not as widely discussed as some other Google algorithms, Hilltop Algorithm played a significant role in shaping the evolution of search result relevance and quality.

 

 

Caffeine Algorithm 2010

 

The Caffeine Algorithm is a significant milestone in the evolution of Google's search infrastructure, introduced in 2010. Unlike traditional algorithms, Caffeine revolutionized the way Google indexed and retrieved information by enabling near-real-time updates to its search index. This meant that fresh and recently published content could be incorporated into search results more rapidly, providing users with the most current and relevant information. Caffeine Algorithm represented a shift towards a more dynamic and timely search experience, enhancing Google's ability to keep pace with the constantly changing landscape of the internet.

 

 

Panda Algorithm 2011

 

The Panda Algorithm, a pivotal development in the world of search engines, was introduced by Google in 2011 to address the issue of low-quality and thin content proliferating on the internet. This algorithm aimed to enhance the quality of search results by penalizing websites with substandard or duplicated content while rewarding those with high-quality and valuable information. The Panda Algorithm marked a significant step towards prioritizing user experience and authoritative content, influencing how website owners approach content creation and SEO strategies. Its ongoing updates have continued to refine Google's ability to deliver more relevant and valuable search results to users.

 

 

Freshness Algorithm 2011

 

The Freshness Algorithm, a key component of Google's search algorithms, was designed to prioritize and deliver the most recent and relevant content to users. Introduced to enhance the timeliness of search results, this algorithm takes into account the freshness of content, giving a boost to recent and regularly updated information. Whether it's breaking news, trending topics, or time-sensitive content, the Freshness Algorithm plays a crucial role in ensuring that users receive up-to-date and contextually relevant results. This emphasis on recency reflects Google's commitment to providing users with the latest and most pertinent information in response to their search queries.

 

 

Venice Algorithm 2012

 

The Venice Algorithm, a notable addition to Google's search infrastructure, was introduced to enhance local search results. Launched in 2012, this algorithm focuses on delivering more personalized and location-specific results to users. By considering the user's geographical location, search history, and preferences, the Venice Algorithm tailors search results to provide relevant information within a specific geographic context. This development has significantly improved the accuracy and usefulness of local searches, catering to the growing importance of location-based information in users' search experiences.

 

 

Pirate Algorithm 2012

 

The Pirate Update, often informally referred to as the Pirate Algorithm, is a series of updates by Google aimed at combating online piracy and copyright infringement. Introduced in 2012, the Pirate Update seeks to reduce the visibility of websites that host or facilitate the distribution of pirated content in Google's search results. By penalizing such sites, Google aims to prioritize legitimate and copyright-compliant sources, thereby supporting intellectual property rights and fostering a more responsible online environment. The Pirate Algorithm underscores Google's commitment to addressing digital piracy and promoting a fair and lawful digital ecosystem.

 

 

Exact Match Domain (EMD) 2012

 

The Exact Match Domain (EMD) update by Google, introduced in 2012, aimed to address the practice of using exact match domain names to gain an advantage in search engine rankings. An exact match domain precisely matches the searched query, and prior to the update, websites with such domains often experienced favorable ranking boosts. However, the EMD update sought to reduce the influence of domain names alone on rankings, focusing on content quality and relevance instead. This algorithm change marked a shift in Google's approach, encouraging websites to prioritize content value and user experience over relying solely on keyword-matched domain names for SEO benefits.

 

 

Penguin Algorithm 2012

 

The Penguin Algorithm, a significant component of Google's search algorithms, was first introduced in 2012 to combat manipulative and spammy link-building practices. Created to enhance the quality of search results, Penguin focuses on penalizing websites that engage in tactics such as buying links or participating in link schemes to artificially boost their rankings. By scrutinizing the quality and relevance of backlinks, Penguin aims to ensure that websites with authentic and valuable content are rewarded while discouraging the manipulation of search rankings through deceptive linking strategies. The Penguin Algorithm has undergone updates over the years, reinforcing Google's commitment to maintaining the integrity and reliability of its search results.

 

 

Page Layout Algorithm 2012

 

The Page Layout Algorithm, introduced by Google in 2012, was designed to enhance the user experience by penalizing websites that prioritize ads over content. Also known as the "Top Heavy" update, this algorithm targets pages where a significant portion of the content is pushed below the fold by excessive advertisements. By prioritizing user-friendly layouts and penalizing those that impede content visibility, the Page Layout Algorithm encourages website owners to create pages that deliver a better balance between ads and valuable content. This initiative reflects Google's commitment to providing users with a positive and content-rich experience when navigating search results.

 

 

Zebra Algorithm 2013

 

 

The Zebra Algorithm, a prominent Google algorithm, plays a crucial role in overseeing online stores and safeguarding against scams in the e-commerce landscape. Introduced by Matt Cutts, the former director of Google Spam, in March 2013, this algorithm actively identifies and eliminates fraudulent online stores, contributing to a safer online shopping environment. Given the growing prevalence of online transactions, Google has periodically updated the Zebra Algorithm to ensure user trust remains a top priority amidst the proliferation of e-commerce platforms.

 

 

Hummingbird Algorithm 2013

 

The Hummingbird Algorithm, a major leap forward in search technology, was introduced by Google in 2013. Unlike previous algorithms that focused on keywords, Hummingbird marked a shift towards understanding the context and intent behind user queries. This algorithm employs natural language processing and semantic understanding, allowing Google to deliver more precise and relevant search results. Hummingbird reflects Google's commitment to providing users with a more conversational and contextually aware search experience, aligning search results more closely with the user's actual intent rather than just individual keywords.

 

 

Payday Loan 2013

 

Numerous pages and websites employ illicit SEO strategies to attain immediate traffic and prominent positions on popular search engines. The primary objective of this algorithm update is to elevate the quality of search results and diminish the presence of websites characterized by a notably high spam rate. Sectors heavily impacted by this update include topics related to loans, pornography, gambling, drugs, among others. The Google Payday Algorithm has significantly contributed to creating a more positive online environment. It has not only improved the internet experience for users but has also benefited deserving website owners who were previously overshadowed by spam websites, making the online landscape happier and more conducive for everyone involved.

 

 

Pigeon Algorithm 2014

 

Launched in 2014, the Google Pigeon Algorithm is a notable enhancement crafted to improve local search outcomes. Its primary aim is to deliver more precise and pertinent local search results by integrating conventional web search ranking elements alongside location-based parameters. Geared towards enhancing user experience for local inquiries, Pigeon prioritizes businesses and services situated near the searcher. Through its emphasis on geographic relevance, the algorithm has played a pivotal role in optimizing local search outcomes, providing advantages for both businesses and users in search of location-specific information.

 

 

Mobilegeddon Algorithm 2015

 

Mobilegeddon Algorithm, introduced by Google in 2015, is a significant update aimed at prioritizing mobile-friendly websites in search results. As mobile devices became increasingly prevalent for internet access, Google recognized the need to enhance the mobile user experience. This algorithm gives preference to websites optimized for mobile devices, considering factors such as responsive design and mobile usability. Mobilegeddon encourages website owners to prioritize mobile-friendliness to ensure better visibility in search rankings, reflecting Google's commitment to delivering a seamless and responsive experience for users accessing the internet on mobile devices.

 

 

Rank Brain Algorithm 2015

 

The Google RankBrain Algorithm, represents a major advancement in the field of search algorithms. Functioning as part of Google's overall search engine algorithm, RankBrain utilizes machine learning and artificial intelligence to interpret and understand the context of search queries. Rather than relying solely on predefined algorithms, RankBrain can process complex and ambiguous queries, providing more relevant search results based on user intent. This algorithm continuously learns and adapts, playing a pivotal role in delivering improved search experiences by comprehending the nuances of user queries and refining the relevance of search results over time.

 

 

Possum Algorithm 2016

 

The Google Possum Algorithm, is a significant update designed to refine local search results. With a focus on enhancing diversity in local search rankings, Possum ensures that businesses located just outside the city center receive greater visibility. This algorithm aims to provide users with more varied and relevant local results, accounting for the proximity of the searcher to businesses. By introducing nuanced factors into the local search equation, Possum has played a crucial role in offering a more diverse and tailored experience for users seeking local information on Google.

 

 

Fred Algorithm 2017

 

The Google Fred Algorithm is a noteworthy update directed at websites that breach Google's webmaster guidelines, giving precedence to ad revenue at the expense of user experience and content quality. Fred imposes penalties on sites featuring subpar content, excessive advertising, and unfavorable user experiences. Its principal aim is to promote search results that prioritize websites providing valuable and user-friendly content, as opposed to those primarily geared towards revenue generation. This algorithm underscores Google's dedication to upholding top-notch search results and ensuring users encounter a positive online environment.

 

 

Medic Algorithm 2018

 

The Google Medic Algorithm, rolled out in 2018, is a substantial update that primarily focuses on evaluating the expertise, authority, and trustworthiness (E-A-T) of websites, particularly those related to health and wellness. Named "Medic" due to its significant impact on medical and health-related content, this algorithm aims to enhance the quality of search results by prioritizing information from authoritative sources. It plays a crucial role in ensuring that users searching for health-related content receive accurate and trustworthy information, aligning with Google's commitment to providing reliable and valuable content, especially in sensitive areas such as health and medical advice.

 

 

 

BERT Algorithm 2018

 

The Google BERT Algorithm represents a significant advancement in natural language processing. BERT, an acronym for Bidirectional Encoder Representations from Transformers, is dedicated to understanding the subtleties and context of search queries, aiming to deliver results that are more accurate and contextually appropriate. Through analyzing word relationships and comprehending the significance of each word within the entire sentence structure, BERT elevates Google's capacity to interpret conversational language and user intent. This algorithm emphasizes Google's dedication to refining the search experience, ensuring more precise and context-aware results, particularly when handling intricate or unclear queries.

 

 

Mobile First Index Algorithm 2019

 

The Google Mobile-First Index Algorithm marks a crucial transformation in how Google assesses and orders websites. Given the rise in mobile device utilization, this algorithm gives precedence to a website's mobile version over its desktop version when it comes to indexing and ranking. By prioritizing mobile content, Google strives to present search results that are not only more pertinent but also user-friendly for the growing mobile audience. This algorithm highlights Google's dedication to adjusting to evolving user behaviors and preferences, guaranteeing that websites optimized for mobile interactions are appropriately highlighted in search results.

 

 

E-A-T Algorithm 2019

 

Google E-A-T, which stands for Expertise, Authoritativeness, and Trustworthiness, is a crucial framework used by Google to assess the quality and reliability of content on the internet. Introduced as part of Google's search algorithm guidelines, E-A-T emphasizes the importance of content creators demonstrating expertise in their field, establishing authority, and fostering trust among their audience. Websites and pages that exhibit high levels of E-A-T are more likely to be considered valuable and reliable sources, influencing their rankings in search results. This framework underscores Google's commitment to providing users with accurate and trustworthy information, especially in critical areas such as health, finance, and other topics where reliability is paramount.

 

 

MUM Algorithm 2021

 

As its name suggests, Multitasking United Model Algorithm possesses the capability to handle multiple tasks concurrently. Unlike algorithms that execute tasks sequentially, the MUM algorithm adeptly manages several tasks simultaneously. This means it can read text, comprehend concepts, and augment understanding with both video and audio concurrently. Moreover, it is proficient in over 75 of the world's living languages, ensuring accurate information reception and the ability to address intricate user queries.

 

 

 

Since Google is an ocean of content, it must list all of them in order based on relevance to the searched term and the quality of the content provided. Because the user does not have the time and ability to check all the displayed results. So, in this case,  those with higher positions will be more accessible by users searches. To index web pages for each term, Google uses crawlers or spiders that crawl all pages and go from one link to another and finally create a list for each term that may be searched. The main job of a search engine is to provide the user with websites that contain his search terms. As a result of this automatic process that determines the position and rank of each searched term on the search results page, a rank is assigned to each page, which is called PageRank.

The search engine giant cannot afford to have a very large database that is unordered and start sorting it whenever a user searches for terms in it. Therefore, Google indexes and manages the content at any time by its crawlers. Searching the index will be much faster than searching the entire database. When the content is indexed, Google makes a copy of it and puts a shortcut for each page in the index.

Now that this process is done, Google can find related terms much easier when searching for a word. There are thousands of results for every search term in Google, Google decides through its algorithms in what order the results will be displayed to the user. This order in the display of searches is the heart of SEO.

Data is Google's biggest asset. A huge volume of data requires modern management so that everything the user wants can be obtained by respecting the principle of trustworthiness. Every year, Google tries to bring the world of information into a newer era by inventing new algorithms.

 

 

 

Google's algorithms, on one side, can lead to penalties or reductions in a site's ranking, but this occurs only when there is a violation of rules. In the majority of instances, these algorithms have been beneficial for users. Search engine algorithms have played a crucial role in enhancing the display of search results, fostering healthy competition among websites, and elevating the overall quality of content on the web. If you own a website and aim to attract more users, it's advisable to implement SEO strategies aligned with Google's algorithms to prevent potential harm.