Ranking on one of these major search engines can be an intimidating task. Ranking on all three entails three different sets of rules and algorithms. It’s not impossible though, it just takes a little in-depth knowledge.

The end result of every search engine is the same. They all want their visitors to find the most relevant results they can by using their search mechanisms. How they get there however changes from search engine to search engine. In particular their algorithms. Yet even these variations are limited.

To clarify the difference between Google, MSN and Yahoo! it is first necessary to understand each one individually, starting with MSN. It could be realistically said that it is easier to expect rankings on MSN first.

MSN for SEO

MSN demands a structured site that carries a distinct theme and provides many inbound links. MSN is fast to pick up and credits new content and incoming links. This is good news for SEO practitioners as it means with the right strategy it is possible to rank fairly quickly.

MSN requires a solid site that focuses on primary keywords, a good number of links and one that keeps their theme constant throughout. They don’t use aging delay methods and within a few months of concentrated SEO, one can start ranking highly for competitive keyword phrases.

Yahoo! for SEO

Yahoo! also demands a solid size website along with unique content and a good amount of links. They have a type of page value factor which is similar to Google’s PageRank. However Yahoo! do not say what the specifics of their page value is.

Yahoo! place importance on age links. Links don’t hold value for them until they are of a certain age. The time period is unknown. In order to rank on Yahoo! they require you have patience until your links age.

Google for SEO

It is the wish of most webmasters that they attain Google rankings. If you build a website that follows ethical practice, you will be ranked. But this will take longer than MSN and Yahoo! rankings due to their link age policy or rule.

The longer your links, domain and pages have been online the better your rankings. Google require constant linking and updated content.

Apart from that Google rankings follow the same rules set by MSN and Yahoo!

In conclusion

It follows logically that a new website should focus their SEO efforts on first MSN and on building good quality and relevant links. While you are gaining rankings on MSN it follows suit that your efforts will start attracting the attention both Yahoo! and Google.

Ranking well on all three search engines is not impossible. In fact it is possibly easier than you may think. It takes patience and time and analysis.

Researching what is required by each will help determine exactly what amount of weight should be focused on different areas. Tweaking your offerings as you go will ensure that your site is optimized for all three search engines.

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