Source: Search Engine Roundtable by barry@rustybrick.com (Barry Schwartz). Read the original article
TL;DR Summary of Google Confirms Crawling Patterns Are Unrelated to Algorithm Updates
Google’s John Mueller reiterates that changes in crawling patterns are not connected to major algorithm updates. This clarification aligns with previous statements from Google representatives, debunking the myth that crawl rate spikes indicate algorithm changes. Additionally, Google confirms it does not influence Bing’s crawling behavior, and vice versa. Despite repeated affirmations, skepticism about this topic persists within SEO communities.
Optimixed’s Overview: Understanding the Separation Between Google Crawling Behavior and Algorithm Updates
Clarifying Misconceptions Around Google Crawl Rates
In the SEO industry, it’s common to associate fluctuations in Google’s crawling activity with the rollout of algorithm updates. However, Google’s John Mueller has once again dispelled this misconception by affirming that major algorithm updates operate independently from short-term changes in crawling patterns.
Historical Context and Consistent Messaging
- Back in 2016, Gary Illyes from Google labeled the idea that crawl rate spikes signal algorithm updates as a myth.
- John Mueller reiterated this stance in 2019 and continues to emphasize it in recent communications.
- Google consistently denies any direct link between crawling fluctuations and update deployments.
Additional Points Addressed
- Google clarified that its crawling activities have no impact on Bing’s crawling, and vice versa.
- Despite clear official statements, discussion and debate around the topic persist in SEO forums and communities.
Understanding this distinction helps SEO professionals focus on relevant signals when monitoring website performance and algorithm changes, avoiding confusion caused by unrelated crawling behavior.
