Source: Google Search Central Blog. Read the original article
TL;DR Summary of Google Updates Location of IP Range JSON Files for Crawlers
Google has relocated its IP range JSON files from the
/search/apis/ipranges/ directory to a more general /crawling/ipranges/ path. This change reflects the broader use of these IP ranges beyond just Search crawlers. Both old and new file locations are temporarily available, but users are encouraged to update their systems promptly. The legacy URLs will be phased out with redirects within six months.Optimixed’s Overview: Streamlining Access to Google’s Crawler IP Ranges for Better Integration
Key Update on Google’s IP Range File Location
Google has announced an important update regarding the hosting location of their IP range JSON files, which are essential for developers managing crawler and API traffic. Previously housed under /search/apis/ipranges/, these files are now consolidated under a more inclusive directory:
- New location:
developers.google.com/crawling/ipranges/ - Old location:
/search/apis/ipranges/(still accessible temporarily)
Why This Change Matters
The adjustment acknowledges that the IP ranges are not exclusive to Google Search crawlers but apply to multiple Google services interacting with developers’ systems. By moving the files to a centralized crawling directory, Google:
- Provides a clearer, more logical URL structure reflecting broader usage.
- Facilitates easier maintenance and updates for developers relying on these IP ranges.
- Ensures future scalability as Google’s crawler ecosystem evolves.
Actionable Recommendations for Developers
Google encourages developers to:
- Update their systems and integrations to point to the new
/crawling/ipranges/location as soon as possible. - Monitor their applications for any dependencies on the legacy URL paths.
- Prepare for the eventual deprecation and redirect of the old URLs within six months to avoid service disruptions.
Staying proactive ensures uninterrupted access to accurate IP range data critical for managing crawler traffic, security, and API integrations.
