People say all kinds of things are ranking factors. But the truth is that Google has never confirmed most of them.
This leads to a lot of misinformation and bad advice.
In this guide, we’ll explore eight ranking factors that we know Google uses.
Backlinks
Backlinks are clickable links from one website to another.
In 2016, Google’s Andrey Lipattsev confirmed they’re one of Google’s strongest ranking factors.
But not all backlinks are equal. Some move the needle more than others.
Nobody knows what makes the perfect backlink, but Google says you should build them from other prominent websites on the subject.
In 2016, Google’s Andrey Lipattsev confirmed they’re one of Google’s strongest ranking factors.
But not all backlinks are equal. Some move the needle more than others.
Nobody knows what makes the perfect backlink, but Google says you should build them from other prominent websites on the subject.
Freshness
Freshness is a query-dependent ranking factor. It’s stronger for queries that call for fresh results.
If freshness is a big deal for your keyword, update your page often or publish new articles to keep up with demand.
HTTPS
HTTPS improves security for your website’s visitors. It’s been a lightweight Google ranking factor since 2014.
If your website doesn’t use HTTPS, you’ll see a “Not Secure” warning in your browser.
If it’s an issue, install a TLS certificate.
Mobile Friendliness
Mobile friendliness has been a ranking factor on mobile since 2015. When Google moved to mobile-first indexing in 2019, it became a ranking factor on desktop too.
Use the Mobile Usability report in Google Search Console to see if you have any issues.
Page Speed
Page speed is a ranking factor on desktop and mobile.
However, when it comes to SEO, the name of the game isn’t to make your site lightning fast—just fast enough. That’s because Google only demotes pages that deliver the slowest experience to users.
Core Web Vitals
Core Web Vitals measure a page’s loading performance, interactivity, and visual stability. Google uses three metrics to do this: Largest Contentful Paint (LCP), First Input Delay (FID), and Cumulative Layout Shift (CLS).
Intrusive Interstitials
Interstitials are page overlays. Google views them as intrusive when they obstruct a user’s view of the content. This is because they interrupt and frustrate users, leading to a poor experience.
Google made intrusive interstitials a negative ranking factor in 2017. Now they’re part of the Page Experience signals.
Keep learning
Many other things can directly or indirectly affect your site’s ability to show up and rank on Google.
Content Source: ahrefs.com
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