Technology · 2
Which algorithm is used by Google to rank search results?
Answer
PageRank
PageRank is Google's revolutionary algorithm for ranking web pages in search results, developed by Larry Page and Sergey Brin at Stanford University in 1996. The algorithm analyzes the link structure of the web, treating hyperlinks as votes of confidence—pages with more high-quality incoming links rank higher. This innovative approach fundamentally transformed search engines from keyword-matching tools to link-analysis engines, and became the foundation of Google's dominance in web search.
💡 Did you know?
PageRank is named after Larry Page (not its function); Google treats links like democratic votes, with quality links worth more.
Other options people guess
- SearchRank
- LinkRank
- WebRank
Topics
- internet
- search
- algorithms
Know your technology trivia?
Play a free Technology quiz and see how many you get right — no signup needed to start.
More Technology facts
Technology
What term describes malicious software designed to infect computers?
Elk Cloner (1982)—created by a 15-year-old—was the first computer virus to spread in the wild via floppy disk.
Technology
In what year was Google founded?
The name 'Google' comes from 'googol'—10 to the power of 100—symbolizing the vast amount of information the search engine could organize.
Technology
What was the first major social media platform to reach 1 billion users?
Facebook surpassed 3 billion monthly active users by 2024, making it one of the largest platforms in human history.
Technology
What is the maximum theoretical data transfer rate of USB 3.0?
USB 3.0 introduced a blue connector to distinguish it from previous versions; later versions use USB-C for universal compatibility.
Technology
In what year did IBM release the first IBM PC?
IBM's open architecture strategy backfired—allowing compatible clones ultimately gave Microsoft Windows and x86 manufacturers control of the PC market.
Technology
What is the name of Twitter's character limit?
Twitter's original 140-character limit came from SMS text message constraints (160 characters minus 20 for a username) and accidentally shaped internet communication for over a decade.