Skip to content

What is a Google core update?

A core update is a broad change Google makes to its ranking systems a few times a year. Rankings can rise or fall across many sites afterward.

Several times a year Google releases a core update, a wide change to how it judges pages in general. Updates take a few weeks to roll out, and Google announces them. They are not aimed at any one site. If rankings drop after one, it usually means other pages now look more helpful, not that your site broke a rule. Google advises focusing on content quality rather than quick fixes.

Why it matters for your business: Ranking swings around a core update are normal. We look at trends over several weeks before deciding whether anything needs to change.

Still need help?

Ask our team
What is a Google core update? | Website Wannabe Support