Skip links

DRIFTER

Drifter Create
Back to blogs

Google’s JavaScript rule: What it means for your SEO tools

Drifter

Google’s latest change is here, and t’s shaking things up with the new Google JavaScript rule. From now on, JavaScript is mandatory for bots crawling websites. This shift could disrupt how SEO tools like SEMRush and SimilarWeb gather data, forcing marketers to rethink their approach.

Google’s JavaScript Requirement: What Changed?

Google has decided that bots, like the ones used by SEO tools, need to render JavaScript to see and evaluate web content. Before, tools could just skim pages and gather data. Now, they’ll need to do a bit more heavy lifting to get the same information.

Google javacript screenshot - turn on kavascript to keep searching

Which SEO Tools Are Most Affected?

  • In Trouble: Tools like SEMRush and SimilarWeb may struggle since they’ve traditionally relied on simpler crawling methods. This could mean delays or incomplete data.
  • Better Prepared: Tools like Screaming Frog and Ahrefs have been ahead of the curve, already supporting JavaScript rendering. They’re not out of the woods, but they’re in a better spot.

Why JavaScript Matters for SEO

A lot of modern websites use JavaScript to load content dynamically. Think of it as the magic that makes a page look complete—images, text, navigation, the works. Without meeting the Google JavaScript Requirement, some tools might only see a blank page or miss key sections, giving you half the story.

How Google’s JavaScript Rule Impacts SEOs

  1. Messy Data: If your go-to tools can’t handle JavaScript, you might see incomplete or outdated info. Not ideal when you’re trying to optimize your site.
  2. Higher Costs: Tools will need to upgrade their tech to keep up, and let’s be real—those costs might land on us as higher subscription fees.
  3. Shift to Google Search Console: Google Search Console might become your new best friend. It’s reliable and direct from the source, but it’s not as user-friendly or detailed as some external tools.
build your dream marketing team with Drifter

Adapting to Google’s JavaScript Requirements

  • Diversify Your Tools: Use a variety of tools, including ones that support JavaScript rendering, alongside Google Search Console.
  • Keep an Eye on Your Data: Monitor your reports. If something looks off, dig deeper and figure out why.
  • Stay Updated: Follow updates from your favorite tools. They’re likely working hard to adapt and stay relevant.

SEO Is Always Evolving: Here’s What to Know

This is a reminder that SEO is always evolving. As websites get more complex, we need to stay flexible and ready to adapt. SEO has never been a “set it and forget it” game, and this is just another twist in the story.

Have you noticed any changes with your tools?

Let us know if you enjoyed reading this article. Connect on LinkedIn or Say Hi! 

Keep reading