Google Core Update November 2023: Fourth Major Update of the Year

An Accelerated Rate of Updates

The frequency of Google's Core Updates has increased noticeably, with major updates in March, August, October, and now November. Historically spaced approximately six months apart, these frequent updates are a first for Google, highlighting the importance for webmasters to stay informed and adaptive to SEO best practices.

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Changes in Reviews and Reviews Updates

Google also announced that they will no longer warn before making updates to their review system, as these will now become regular and continuous. This new approach requires increased vigilance from site owners to monitor the performance of their sites continuously.

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Google Answers to Key Questions

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Why a Core Update so quickly?

• Google: “We've improved a different ranking system than October in the November Core Update.”

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Difference between Ranking Update and Ranking System?

• Google: “Our ranking systems generate search results. Updates come when we improve these systems.”

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Purpose of the Updates?

• Google: “We are constantly looking to improve our automated systems to provide better search results.”

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Why Do Updates Overlap?

• Google: “We separate notable updates, but with the large number of updates it is not always possible to isolate them. We release improvements as soon as they are ready.”

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Updates During the Holiday Season?

• Google: “We avoid updates between late November and mid-December when possible, but if significant improvements are ready, we deploy them.”

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Our Recommendation

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In the event of a drop in traffic or positioning following a Core Update, it is crucial to carry out an SEO audit of your site. With today's pace of updates, acting quickly is essential to staying competitive in the digital space.