
Google now renders all webpages, including those with heavy JavaScript, for search indexing. This rendering process, though resource-intensive, is crucial for thorough indexing. Google fully processes websites with complex JavaScript to ensure accurate search results.
In a recent episode of Google’s “Search Off The Record” podcast, Zoe Clifford from the rendering team joined Martin Splitt and John Mueller from Search Relations to discuss how Google manages JavaScript-heavy websites. Google confirms that it renders all websites in its search results, including those that rely heavily on JavaScript.
Rendering Process Explained
In the context of Google Search, Zoe Clifford explained that rendering involves using a headless browser to process web pages. This approach enables Google to index content as it appears to users after JavaScript has executed and the page has fully loaded.
Clifford stated, “We run a browser in the indexing pipeline so we can index the web page view as a user would see it after it has loaded and JavaScript has executed.”
All HTML Pages Rendered
One of the podcast’s most significant revelations was that Google renders all HTML pages, not just a select few. Despite the resource-intensive nature of this process, Google is committed to ensuring comprehensive indexing.
Clifford confirmed, “We just render all of them, as long as they’re HTML and not other content types like PDFs.” She acknowledged that while the process is expensive, accessing the full content of web pages, especially those relying heavily on JavaScript, is necessary.
Continuous Browser Updates
The team also discussed Google’s shift to using the “Evergreen Googlebot” in 2019.
This update ensures that Googlebot, Google’s web crawling bot, stays current with the latest stable version of Chrome.
As a result, Google’s ability to render and index modern websites has significantly improved.
What This Means for Website Owners & Developers
Good news for JavaScript: If your website relies heavily on JavaScript, Google is more likely to understand and index it effectively.
Speed still matters: Despite Google’s improved handling of JavaScript, having a fast-loading website remains crucial for user experience and search rankings.
Please keep it simple when you can: While using JavaScript is fine, avoid overcomplicating your site. More straightforward websites are generally more accessible for both Google and visitors to understand.
Check your work: Utilize Google’s free tools, like Fetch As Google, to ensure search crawlers can accurately render your site.
Think about all users: Some users may have slow internet connections or older devices. Ensure your main content is accessible even if JavaScript doesn’t load perfectly.
Wrapping Up
Google’s ability to handle JavaScript-heavy websites gives developers more freedom. However, creating fast, user-friendly websites that work well for everyone is still essential.
By keeping these things in mind, you can ensure your website remains optimized for both Google and your visitors. If you find it all complicated and confusing, check out our monthly SEO packages and let the experts help you.