Reading Time: 2 minutes
Google rolls out multiple core and spam updates each year to refine search quality, enhance spam detection, and improve overall user experience.
Below is a recap of the major Google algorithm updates for 2024, outlining their purpose and impact on search rankings and website performance.
| Update Name | Date | Description |
|---|---|---|
| December ’24 Spam Update | Started 19/12/2024 – Completed 26/12/2024 | Aimed at improving Google’s spam detection capabilities. Broad spam update targeting+ websites in violation of Google’s spam policies. |
| December ’24 Core Update | Started 12/12/2024 – Completed 18/12/2024 | Fourth and final core update of 2024. Aimed at refining search rankings to improve content quality and relevance. Many sites experienced fluctuations, with a focus on rewarding high-value content. |
| November ’24 Core Update | Started 11/11/2024 – Completed 5/12/2024 | A major algorithm update lasting over three weeks, refining Google’s ranking criteria to favor authoritative, user-focused content while downranking outdated or unhelpful pages. The algorithm was also updated to understand context and intent to provide more nuanced search results. |
| Ranking Experiencing an Ongoing Issue | Started 15/08/2024 – Completed 19/08/2024 | Google acknowledged ranking disruptions due to technical issues affecting indexing and ranking stability. Temporary ranking volatility was observed. |
| August ’24 Core Update | Started 15/08/2024 – Completed 3/09/2024 | Rolled out to improve search result quality, promoting useful content. This update incorporated feedback from creators following the March ‘24 update. Aiming to help small and independent publishers with original and relevant content connect with users. |
| June ’24 Spam Update | Started 20/06/2024 – Completed 27/06/2024 | The goal of this update was to improve search result quality by targeting websites in violation of Google’s spam policies. Focused on the elimination of various forms of spam such as automated AI content generation with the sole purpose of improving search rankings, paid links meant to manipulate rankings, thin, duplicated or poor-quality content, and hidden redirects or other deceptive techniques. |
| March ’24 Spam Update | Started 5/03/2024 – Completed 19/03/2024 | Aimed at improving Google’s ability to detect search spam making use of manipulative tactics. Targeted aggressive spam tactics such as expired domain abuse, scaled content abuse and site reputation abuse. |
| March ’24 Core Update | Started 5/03/2024 – Completed 19/04/2024 | A major ranking update over 45 days, with the goal of enhancing search result quality by reducing low-quality content. Focusing on content relevance, expertise, and trustworthiness while reducing the impact of low-quality sites. |