Confirmed

March 2024 core update

Completed
April 26, 2024
Started
March 5, 2024

Current status of the ranking update

Status:
Completed
Announced by Google:
March 5, 2024
Update started:
March 5, 2024
Update completed:
April 26, 2024

Types of websites affected:

The March 2024 core update and associated spam policies primarily impacted websites that:

  • Engage in creating low-quality, unoriginal content designed to manipulate search rankings.
  • Use expired domains or participate in scaled content abuse.
  • Publish third-party content without proper oversight, aiming to exploit the hosting site's reputation.

What to Expect:

Websites affected by the March 2024 core update may experience:

  • Significant fluctuations in search engine rankings due to the update's complexity and the incorporation of the helpful content system into the core ranking systems.
  • A notable decrease in the importance of link-building strategies, with increased emphasis on content quality and user experience.
  • Potential ranking losses for sites engaged in manipulative link practices or low-quality content production.

What to Address / How to Approach:

To adapt to the March 2024 core update, website owners should:

  • Focus on creating high-quality, user-first content that genuinely serves their audience rather than manipulating search engines.
  • Review and update any link-building strategies to ensure they align with Google's new guidelines, emphasizing natural and valuable links.
  • Audit third-party content and expired domains to ensure they meet Google's standards and do not negatively impact the site's reputation.

Interesting Fact 💡: 

The March 2024 core update led to a 45% reduction in low-quality, unoriginal content, surpassing Google's initial expectation of 40%, and marked a shift towards prioritizing content quality over traditional link-building strategies.